‘Broken Voices’ Review: A Girl’s Dreams Are Shattered by Sexual Predation in an Artful Drama From the Czech Republic

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Skillfully handling a well-known topic while paying careful attention to emotional nuances, Czech filmmaker Ondrej Provaznik presents a subtly impactful teenage drama with his new production titled Broken Voices, originally known as Sbormistr.

Drawing inspiration from the actual events surrounding the Bambini di Praga, a celebrated Czech choir of young people whose conductor was convicted in 2008 for sexually abusing numerous teenage girls, this film takes a predictable yet poignant route. Having debuted in competition at Karlovy Vary, it has the potential to resonate in various festivals as well as art-house distributors across Europe.

In the early 90s, as the Czech Republic was breaking free from Communism and embracing the West, Provaznik’s carefully crafted plot showcases the eagerness of children born under Soviet rule to experience life beyond their homeland. For siblings Karolina (Katerina Falbrova) and Lucie (Maya Kintera), this desire translates into being selected as top-tier singers for a renowned choir, preparing to tour three significant American cities.

The problem lies in the fact that the renowned choir they’re known for is led by Macha (Juraj Loj), a self-important and rock star-esque conductor. Whether or not this was intended, he gives off an aura of being a potential sexual predator. This impression proves to be accurate when we witness Lucie returning home uneasy after encountering Macha at a gathering, suggesting that some choir members are forced to pay a steep price for his attention.

Initially, it’s Lucie who is most favored, while Karolina is seen as a novice. However, after Lucie has a confrontation with Vitek, she fades into the sidelines. This leaves Karolina in the spotlight, under the tutelage of a teacher who justifies his abusive actions by explaining techniques for perfect pitch. As time goes on and both sisters join their chorus for New York, Karolina becomes the focus of Vitek’s predatory behavior. She understands the situation, but feels too frightened and powerless to free herself from it.

In this narrative, Provaznik predominantly shares the perspective of Karolina, a naive girl who, unfortunately, finds herself overwhelmed by the oppressive influences in her life. These forces comprise her parents, who push relentlessly to ensure their daughters gain favor; Lucie and the other vocalists, who begrudge Karolina for skipping ahead in the lineup and retaliate against her later on; and Vitek, a man with a history of mistreating young women, who targets Karolina as his next prey.

In those days, a choir presented exceptional chances for young women in the Czech Republic, as they peered beyond the Iron Curtain, during a period when the country, along with other Eastern Bloc nations, was seeking change. Provaznik subtly suggests this through scenes depicting the teens dancing or singing to rock music, with Vitek playing his guitar. This scene beautifully captures the excitement Karolina and others felt – an excitement that would later be marred by the pain and shame many of them would endure.

In grainy 16mm to enhance the film’s atmospheric feel, Broken Voices delves deeply into the societal and cultural context of its era. Provaznik skillfully elicits powerful performances from the young cast, whether during choir rehearsals or behind the scenes. Loj stands out as a teacher who wields his power ruthlessly without any remorse, reflecting a time when such abuses often went unchecked.

The story unfolds primarily in two compelling settings: a secluded ski resort where Vitek isolates the choir for a two-week training camp before their major tour, subjecting them to grueling practice sessions followed by mixed visits to the sauna; and a luxurious hotel in Manhattan where he ultimately pursues Karolina. The scene set in the Manhattan hotel is tastefully choreographed in a single fixed shot, with a window overlooking an apartment whose residents are oblivious to the events unfolding just beyond their view.

Despite its somber tone, the movie is rich with instances where the girls’ harmonious performances bring a sense of tranquil joy. Their voices serve as their passports, propelling them beyond the Czech Republic towards wider possibilities. Furthermore, these poignant scenes elevate this thoughtful documentary into a more meditative and divine experience. The musical sequences climax in a scene where Karolina courageously, sorrowfully, and urgently takes center stage – an act of defiance in a world dominated by submission.

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2025-07-07 23:54