This film is geo-blocked and only available to viewers in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine
Shortlisted for Best International Feature Film: Czech Republic’s submission to the 2021 Academy Awards
Sponsored by Arnie Malina, VTIFF Board
In this richly drawn portrait, celebrated Polish filmmaker Agnieszka Holland (Europa, Europa, Spoor) manifests the riveting life and work of Czech herbalist and faith healer Jan Mikolášek, who cured hundreds with natural remedies. Magnanimous with his abilities, he treated the poor and wealthy alike, never turning away a patient—including the occupying Nazis forces and the president of the country. Yet, it was this last relationship that led to Mikolášek’s downfall, as he was prosecuted for charlatanism by the subsequent Communist government. Holland weaves the complicated political situation of 20th century East Europe through Mikolasek’s personal life and mission, surprising the viewer time and again with sudden new perspectives.