Sám proti městu

The plot of Jaroslav Dudek's television production is set in the English town of Birkden, whose small-town atmosphere has been changed by industrialization, which brought with it increased unemployment and other negative effects. In many ways Birkden begins to become reminiscent of American cities controlled by gangsters with their peculiar practices. The story's protagonist, Doctor Salt (the brilliant Karel Höger), is a solitary, eccentric old man with a fondness for classical music and books. He's preparing to leave Birkden, but first he wants to find his missing patient. His stubbornness, and premonition of something evil, keep him searching despite threats and well-intended warnings. On more than one occasion, there is a confrontation between Salt's intellect and mindless muscle men. The combination of English detective story and "pretend America" offers, in the Czechoslovak rendition, a unique variation on film noir. (Noir Film Festival)