Julián odpadlík

A historical television studio play about a real figure from ancient history, the last Roman emperor who practiced old pagan cults and attempted to reverse the shift towards monotheistic religion. This film is simply poorly written; it doesn’t work as a drama, and instead of building towards any catharsis, it stalls and bores. Regarding historical figures from thousands of years ago, we obviously know very little, but even what is known about Julian completely contradicts the portrayal the screenwriter attempts to sell to the audience. Julian, played by Rudolf Hrušínský, is depicted as perpetually absent-minded, emotionally unstable, and entirely incapable of managing the empire. The only thing the play can offer is top-notch casting. I fear that this, along with respect for an old title from the television archive, is what led to its high rating, because otherwise, it is rightfully a forgotten affair. Overall impression: 25%. (12/26/2013)