Experience the Surrealism of Jan Švankmajer’s Alice at Metrograph
Cinema lovers and fans of the avant-garde have a rare opportunity this April to dive into the unsettling and imaginative world of Czech cinema. Metrograph is hosting screenings of Jan Švankmajer’s 1988 feature debut, Alice, as part of a curated series titled The Weird and Wonderful World of Czech Animation.
Unlike traditional adaptations of Lewis Carroll’s work, Švankmajer’s vision is a proto-surrealist exploration that avoids the typical “sweetness and light” associated with the source material. Instead, the film plunges the viewer into a troubling subterranean dreamscape filled with maniacal tea parties and sentient objects, creating a haunting atmosphere that challenges the viewer’s perception of reality.
A Unique Vision of Wonderland
Completed after more than two decades of producing short films, Alice stands as a landmark in surrealist fantasy. The film is notable for its stark casting choices; Kristýna Kohoutová serves as the lone human performer, navigating a world populated by stuffed rabbits, moving socks, and an apoplectically angry Queen of Hearts.
Distributed by Park Circus, this 86-minute feature is presented in DCP format, ensuring the tactile, often jarring textures of Švankmajer’s animation and live-action blends are preserved for the big screen.
Screening Schedule and Series Details
The film is a cornerstone of the new “The Weird and Wonderful World of Czech Animation” series at Metrograph, which similarly features programs such as Invention for Destruction and a dedicated Czechoslovak Animation shorts program.
Tickets are available for the following showtimes:
- Sunday, April 5: 7:45pm
- Friday, April 10: 4:30pm
- Sunday, April 12: 11:15am
Key Takeaways for Moviegoers
- Director: Jan Švankmajer, a legendary figure in Czech surrealism.
- Core Theme: A dark, proto-surrealist adaptation of the Alice books.
- Visual Style: A mix of live-action and animation featuring a “cabinet of curiosities” aesthetic.
- Venue: Metrograph, as part of a specialized Czech animation series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a children’s movie?
While based on the beloved Alice books, this version “strips away all sweetness and light” to create a troubling and surreal experience, making it more of an art-house exploration than a traditional children’s film.
Who is the lead actress?
Kristýna Kohoutová is the only human performer in the film, portraying the heroine and narrator.
How long is the film?
The movie has a runtime of 86 minutes.
Whether you are a student of animation or a devotee of surrealist cinema, Švankmajer’s Alice offers a visceral journey through one of the most unique imaginations in film history. With limited screenings this April, it is a must-see event for those looking to explore the depths of Czech cinematic artistry.
Worth a look