The film Champion commemorates the life of figure skating legend Ondrej Nepela: the preview took place in Milan at the Winter Olympics
Winner of the Winter Olympics in 1972, three-time world and five-time European champion, and in addition, eight-time national champion. All of this was achieved during his relatively short career by Slovak figure skater Ondrej Nepela. Determination combined with strict discipline brought him to the top. However, a new film reveals much more than just fame and success. It showcases the athlete's queer identity, the difficult life under the regime, and a deeply rooted longing for freedom.
An exceptional pre-premiere took place on February 18th at the Slovak Olympic House in Milan. The film was screened with English subtitles to ensure that attendance was not limited only to local fans. The event beautifully connected cultural heritage with sports and paid tribute not only to Ondrej but also to his coach Hilda Múdra.
"Ondrej Nepela is one of the most prominent figures in the history of Slovak sports. His legacy remains alive and inspiring to this day. This is why the current Olympic delegation was inspired by his legendary performance in the design of the official Olympic attire."
Announced for the press release by the general secretary of the Slovak Olympic and Sports Committee, Jozef Liba.
Film Duel
An important question, however, is whether we even needed Champ. It's been barely half a year since the film Nepela was released, which essentially tells the same story. The main role was played by Czech actor Josef Trojan, and the film received mostly positive reactions. It has a rating of around 70% on the Czechoslovak film database, which is very commendable for a domestic title. Champ is expected to rely more on emotions and technically ambitious execution. Therefore, for Champ, it's not just about the need to engage, but also about some kind of imagined competition between these adaptations.
"Hmmm. I like this actor more."
One of the comments under the trailer appeared. So, it may not only be a comparison of the films but also of the actors themselves. Adam Kubala, however, does resemble an athlete a bit more at first glance. We will see which film does better soon, as it will be released for Slovak viewers on March 26, and we will be able to see it from April 9.
The Champion Belongs at the Olympics
The film, due to its theme, certainly belongs at the Olympics. The values it reminds us of are still very relevant today, and it is beneficial to talk about them.
“Introducing a Slovak film during the Winter Olympic Games is a huge honor and a strong symbol. THE CHAMPION does not belong only in cinemas; it belongs on Olympic grounds, where the history of Ondrej Nepela was written. For our creative team, it is a confirmation that the story we tell has international reach and a dignified place among the world's greatest sporting events. We perceive it as a great expression of respect not only towards Ondrej Nepela and Hilda Múdra but also towards the values they represented.”
One of the producers, Tibor Búza, commented.
According to available sources, the pre-premiere was exceedingly successful. After the screening ended, the audience showed enthusiasm with several minutes of applause and congratulations. Such a response, along with the Olympic atmosphere, undoubtedly created an unforgettable evening.
To the Cinema
Domestic production also deserves its place in cinematography, so don't miss the film and go to the cinema to support a movie that, for once, is not a typical Czech comedy.
The champion also benefits quite a lot from its release right after the winter games. When else would you be more tempted to see such a film than right after them? The film isn't just for sports enthusiasts but for everyone who enjoys seeing how things looked like a few years back. What do you think? Will the Champion perform better than Nepela, or would one adaptation be enough for us?
Sources: author's text, press release, totalfilm.cz, csfd
