Escape from the Shadows

This exemplary "psychological drama" depicts the difficulties with which a new socialist mindset is born. Director Jiří Sequens warns against ill-advised marriages into the families of the defeated bourgeoisie, because the former royalty refuses to accept a man from a different social class. The heroes of this film will find out. The former owner of a pharmacy refuses to accept that his daughter has married a mere technical draughtsman. However, her father's hateful schemes cause the sensitive woman to attempt suicide.

Directed by Jiří Sequens, Escape from the Shadows leans on a strong ensemble — František Smolík, Ludmila Vendlová, Stanislav Remunda — 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 drama titles of 1959.