Middle-aged man Eugene (Helsus) is married to a woman his own age but tormented by dreams of a pretty young woman (Issova). Eventually he realises that she shares the same name as his mother, a Freudian revelation only intensified when she becomes pregnant...
The Czech animation maestro's first feature for six years is a welcome, if sometimes slight, return. It's still 20 percent more weird and wonderful than your average dream-exploring, Freud-featuring cut-out animation.
One of the most imaginative and visually arresting films of the year. Essential viewing.
The film interestingly and subversively takes its stand on the idea that dreams are the real thing; waking life is an exotic, strange tissue of unreal diversions.
The Czech satirist Svankmajer is in good form.
Jan Svankmajer
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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