The first ever cult Czechoslovak film musical, Ladislav Rychman's sumptuous The Hop-Pickers was an instant sensation on its release in 1964, and its popularity has since endured for generations of Czech viewers.
Set during the annual hop harvest, a new generation confront the authority and expectations of their elders. This youthful rebellion explodes in colourful production numbers, irrepressibly catchy songs and audacious satire.
Channelling the energy of the swinging ’60s with a distinctly Czech twist on the big-screen musical, The Hop-Pickers vibrantly blends music, dance, and New Wave realism, offering a playful exploration of the struggle for individuality and sexual freedom.
Blu-ray special features:
• The Hop-Pickers (Starci na chmelu, 1964) presented from a new 4K restoration by the Czech National Film Archive.
• Gift of the Earth (Dar země, 1932): A rare archival silent film on the Czech hop-picking industry.
• One Hundred and Ten Years of the Pilsen Brewery (Sto deset let plzeňských piwowarů, 1952): A silent promotional film directed by the great Karel Zeman.
• The Processing of Hops (Posklizňová úprava chmelu, 1964): A contemporary information film directed by Josef Šuran.
• Trailer.
• 5.1 DTS-HD Audio option.
• 24-page booklet featuring an expansive new essay on the film by author Jonathan Owen.
• New and improved English subtitle translation.
• UK premiere on Blu-ray.
• Region free Blu-ray (A/B/C).
