Exploring the Depths of Humanity: A Review of "Better Go Mad In The Wild" at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival
The 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival showcased an unexpected gem, "Better Go Mad In The Wild," a documentary that pays homage to the legendary Maysles brothers and their 1975 classic, "Grey Gardens." This evocative film delves into the lives of František and Ondřej Klišík, eccentric twin brothers from the picturesque Bohemian Forest in the Czech Republic. Their story, much like the Maysles’ intriguing narrative, challenges viewers to look beyond appearances and question societal norms.
Directed by Slovak filmmaker Miro Remo, "Better Go Mad In The Wild" juxtaposes the brothers’ rustic lifestyle with the opulence of modernity, showing how their dilapidated farmhouse stands in stark contrast to the lavish Mar-a-Lago. The film resonates with themes of authenticity, much like Dušan Hanák’s influential documentary, "Pictures of the Old World," which was suppressed under the Communist regime. Hanák’s work poignantly depicted the struggles of rural communities, providing a sympathetic lens on those left behind during significant societal changes.
In Remo’s film, the Klišík twins, both in their sixties and adorned with bushy beards, embody a unique blend of wisdom and whimsy. Their home, marked by a makeshift wall that divides their space yet unites their lives, serves as a metaphor for their existence—one that embraces both isolation and companionship. Despite their rugged exterior and occasional drunken antics, the twins engage in profound conversations about life and poetry, revealing their intellectual depth and self-taught knowledge.
Nandy, a philosophical bull, narrates the film, adding a layer of humor and insight as he reflects on the brothers’ lives. Their past as active participants in the Velvet Revolution of 1989, where they produced anti-regime pamphlets, adds depth to their story, yet the film often opts for a more whimsical depiction of their daily routines rather than a thorough exploration of their history.
While "Better Go Mad In The Wild" captures charming and amusing moments—like one brother cheerfully greeting a passing train while naked or their playful banter about moles—there are times when the repetitive nature of their interactions can feel exhausting. Even Nandy acknowledges the increasing tension within their close quarters, hinting at a need for deeper exploration of their dynamic.
The film’s focus on the brothers’ eccentricities brings a lightheartedness that is both endearing and entertaining. Scenes featuring them covered in cabbages or interacting with their farm animals create a vivid and quirky portrait of their lives. However, the narrative occasionally lacks the profound insights that viewers might hope for, leaving the audience yearning for a more substantial examination of the Klišíks’ unique bond.
In conclusion, "Better Go Mad In The Wild" offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of two unconventional twins living on the fringes of society. While the film excels in showcasing their charm and individuality, it also leaves room for a deeper exploration of the themes it touches upon. If you’re intrigued by stories of authenticity, eccentricity, and the complexities of human connection, this documentary is certainly worth your time.
Film Details:
- Title: Better Go Mad in the Wild
- Festival: Karlovy Vary (Crystal Globe Competition)
- Director: Miro Remo
- Screenwriters: Miro Remo, Aleš Palán (based on the book by Aleš Palán)
- Cast: František Klišík, Ondřej Klišík
- Sales: Filmotor
- Running Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
