Karlovy Vary

Rene

 (Documentary -- Czech Republic)

By BOYD VAN HOEIJ

An Aerofilms release of a Negativ, Helena Trestikova, Ceska Televize presentation of a Negativ production, in association with Ceska Televize. (International sales: Taskovski Films, London.) Produced by Katerina Cerna, Pavel Strnad, Anna Beckova. Directed, written by Helena Trestikova.
 
With: Rene Plasil.
 

Czech helmer Helena Trestikova chronicles the life of a chronic jailbird in "Rene," an ambitious docu filmed over 20 years, from 1988-2008. Pic aims to be a real-life "Worst of Youth," combining the portrayal of the title character with an overview of the enormous changes in Czech society. But since most of the events reach Rene via TV, their impact is muted. Pic is more interesting for the glimpses of the helmer's obsessive interest in her protag -- even after she became a victim of his criminal activities. Festivals are the most likely takers before tube and vid sales.

Since age 15, Rene Plasil has been in and out of the slammer as if it had a revolving door. When lonely or needy, he writes long, thoughtful letters to Trestikova (heard in v.o.), and she helps him get his work published. Helmer is a vet of "long-term observation docus," but it is clear Rene holds a special place in her affections. Protag's direct confrontation of this issue is the pic's most satisfying scene; otherwise, his characterization is somewhat flat. Guitar-based score and lensing are appropriately rocky.

Camera (color), Martin Kubala, Petr Pesek, Stano Slusny, Vaclav Smolik, Marek Dvorak, Ondrej Belica, Miroslav Soucek, Vlastimil Hamernik; editor, Jakub Hejna; music, Tadeas Vercak. Reviewed at Karlovy Vary Film Festival (competing), July 8, 2008. Running time: 83 MIN.