Project Detail

Empties

Synopsis

Czech literature teacher Josef Tkaloun, who is past retirement age, realises one day that he no longer understands his pupils, and so he quits - dramatically. What he does not predict is that in doing this he will lose his sense of place in society. He finds himself isolated in his city flat with only his wife Eliska for company. Unsure how to deal with this new situation, Josef tries to find a way out. After a few vain attempts at finding a decent job he accepts a position at a refundable bottles counter in the local supermarket. In this seemingly inhospitable place, he solves what had been the root of his unhappiness. Surrounded by characterful people and at the centre of a city community, Josef finally finds his way back to his own wife.

Details

Year: 2008
Type of project: Features
Running time: 100 mins
Format: 35mm
Director: Jan Sverák
Producer: Jan Sverák, Eric Abraham
Screenwriter: Zdenek Sverák
Director of Photography: Vladimír Smutný
Principal cast: Zdenek Sverák, Tatiana Vilhelmová, Daniela Kolárová, Alena Vránová, Jirí Machácek