WHEN THE WAR COMES
directed by Jan Gebert, Czech Republic and Croatia 2018, 76’

Peter Švrček comes from a middle-class family, he has just finished his studies, and his girlfriend is pretty. But Peter is worried. He is worried about Slovakia’s future and the waves of immigrants. If there is a war, Peter wants to be prepared, that is why he runs a paramilitary group involving dozens of men. During their weekend training sessions, they wear fake uniforms and use fake weapons, but they take their mission pretty seriously. The group gives speeches in high schools, and they all help in the organization of folkloristic events. Director Jan Gebert observes the group’s increasing popularity without judgement. The group even wants to get into politics, in order to protect what belongs to them, and to keep Slovakia only for the Slovaks. Until Peter and his assistants break the law, the government will not be involved.

Discussant:
Matteo Albanese (University of Padova)

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16 – Seminar at CLE

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