Review of Closely Observed Trains

Introduction

Milos Hrma (Václav Neckár) is a bit wet behind the ears and wants to take the easiest path in life. He can`t talk to girls and feels a failure around them, he`s so awkward and shy it`s almost tragic when it`s time to take things to the next level. This insignificant life he leads turns on its head when he becomes involved with the Resistance movement.

"This is generally regarded as one of the finest examples of the Czech New Wave movement of the mid-1960s. Universally acclaimed…" I can`t make any introduction or comment to the Czech New Wave as this means nothing to me. Having watched this DVD however I`m a little intrigued to see a few more examples of films from the era. Let`s get on with it…

Video

Closely Observed Trains arrives with its original black & white 1.33:1 fullframe video transfer. There are plenty of specks of dirt throughout and a little print damage but it`s not enough to spoil the film. Blacks are very dark and some scenes do appear darker than others while grain is kept in check and detail looks okay. The transfer is acceptable.

Audio

A Czech Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack does as well as it can with all sound effects and dialogue coming clearly from the front. There isn`t much hiss but there are cracks and pops from time to time. When the music comes on it sounds distorted.

Features

Easy to navigate menu with a couple of extras:

• Liner Notes - We didn`t receive the notes with the review copy so we can`t say anything about this.
• Trailer (1:54) - The usual fare extolling the critics of the time

The English subtitles are easy to read and Closely Observed Trains comes packaged in a standard DVD keep case.

Conclusion

Closely Observed Trains is a gentle and entertaining look at a man`s sexual awakening in a Nazi occupied Czech village. The feeling of naivety is perfectly captured by actor Václav Neckár that when he finally overcomes his sexual hurdle he becomes the most unlikely hero in the Resistance against the Nazis. Despite the average sound and picture Closely Observed Trains is an enjoyable satire.