Hrdý Budžes

A recording of the theatrical adaptation of Irena Dousková's bestseller, starring Bára Hrzánová in the lead role. A few years ago, few people could have guessed how popular Irena Dousková's slim book with the somewhat mysterious title "Hrdý Budžes" would become. The stories of Helenka Součková, a second-grade elementary school student suffering from pensiveness and obesity, and, by extension, the onset of Husák's normalization, take place in the then party stronghold of Příbram, known for its uranium mining. It was therefore logical that the Příbram theater would bring Helenka's stories to the stage. And, as it turned out, it found a brilliant actress to play the main character. Bára Hrzánová was awarded the 2003 Thalia Prize for this role, and the television recording of the theatrical production became a real hit with viewers, as did the performance itself and Irena Dousková's book.

Directed by Jiří Schmiedt, Jan Brichcín, Hrdý Budžes leans on a strong ensemble — Barbora Hrzánová, Jarmila Vlčková, Libor Jeník — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 2003.