Alchemical Furnace

Synopsis

Jan Svankmajer, at 85 years of age, is one of the most prominent artists of European cinema. His work has inspired and guided generations of directors, and represents a sharp and merciless exploration of human nature which is entirely unique. When he decided to retire from filmmaking after "Insect" (2018), his producer suggested that the creative processes which ferment within their company Athanor should be preserved on film. Over three years, the directors of this documentary followed the life of Jan Svankmajer, elucidating his artistic principles, as well as his collaboration with old friend and producer Jaromír Kallista. The film is also haunted by the memory of Eva Svankmajerová, his wife and creative partner, muse and inseparable other half. Playful and poetic, candid and with a touch of Czech humour, it is an ode to creation and to companionship.

Main Cast

Jan Švankmajer

Himself

Age : 90 | Popularity : 26%

Andrew Hawkins

Self

Age : N/A | Popularity : 2%

Crew

Department	Role	Name
Directing	Director	Jan Daňhel Adam Oľha
Editing	Editor	Jan Daňhel
Writing	Screenplay	Adam Oľha Jan Daňhel
Production	Producer	Jaromír Kallista Zuzana Mistríková Ľubica Orechovská
	Executive Producer	Pavla Kallistová
	Production Manager	Alice Tabery
Sound	Sound	Tobiáš Potočný Denisa Uherová Ivo Špalj Vojtěch Knot
Camera	Director of Photography	Adam Oľha
Department	Role	Name

Join the discussion