Helena Benešová: Bětka Veselka

This smiling dramatic story by the experienced radio author Helena Benešová is set in the small Czech village of Ouholice, which at first glance appears to be an idyllic corner of almost old-world virtues and natural beauty. Beneath this surface, the small and essentially kindly conflicts of the inhabitants of this village are taking place, disputes about maintaining a reasonable framework for forest management, common neighborhood discrepancies, all of which are dominated by Bětka, called Veselka, with her irresistibly optimistic attitude and positive foundation, woman, that life hasn't been kind to, and yet, or maybe that's why, can approach it with admirable poise and vigour. Bětka Veselka, directed by Josef Melč, became a great acting opportunity for Jiřina Jirásková. In 1985 she won the Prix Bohemia festival prize for her portrayal.