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The Movie:
Although director Milos Forman is now more widely known for his American-made dramas ("People Vs. Larry Flynt", "Amadeus"), it's interesting to watch his earlier Czech films, such as the very funny and enjoyable "Firemen's Ball" and this film, a slightly even simpler tale of romance. "Loves of a Blonde" revolves around Andula (Hana Brejchová), a young girl who lives a basic life working in a shoe factory, surrounded by other women around her age. As with the other girls, she dreams of romance and love, but there's really no one around for her.
The factory heads are thinking the same thing; they make plans for soldiers to visit the women of the factory and have a bit of a social. Unfortunately, things don't turn out as planned and the women sit together, hoping that one of the older soldiers won't come over. Much like something out of high school, the two sit on their own sides. Eventually, some of the men come over to chat, but the girls seem disinterested. Andula is focusing her attention on someone else; the piano player for the evening seems interested in her and she's interested in him, but, after a night together, will things continue or will she face dissapointment?
The performances in Forman's film are quite good, especially Brejchová as Andula, who provides an emotional effort that gains sympathy and interest. Unfortunately, some of the other characters are more vaguely developed and the story itself seems a bit more extended than it needed to be, with a few slow points. Still, while there is less going on and the story is a bit more low-key than the more intense and funny "Fireman's Ball", "Loves of a Blonde" is a simple, occasionally moving, nicely acted and filmed tale.
The DVD
VIDEO: "Loves of a Blonde" is presented in the film's original 1.33:1 full-frame aspect ratio. The transfer is taken from a 35mm internegative and was supervised by Forman's cinematographer, as was Criterion's new transfer for his "Fireman's Ball". While that picture is in color, this is a black and white film, but the cinematography is no less striking. Sharpness and detail are generally solid and consistent, as the picture appeared crisp and clear throughout, with only a few scenes that looked slightly soft in comparison.
As with "Fireman's Ball", either some cleaning/restoration has been done, or these films have been kept in very good shape over the years. Certainly, there are a few minor flaws on the print used; a few stray specks here, some dirt there, but considering the film's age, I was suprised at how clean it looked overall. No edge enhancement or pixelation were seen. Overall, Criterion has given this film impressive treatment; fans should definitely be pleased.
SOUND: The film is presented in Czech mono by Criterion. The soundtrack doesn't start off on a pleasant note, as a song being sung by a character during the opening credits was shrill and thin to the point where I had to turn the volume down. After that, things get considerably better, as the sound quality becomes more pleasant and comfortable to listen to. Dialogue and the film's few sound effects come through clearly, although there are a few moments that sounded slightly rough. Still, this is a fine presentation for a film of its age.
MENUS: Criterion has provided fun animated menus for the picture, nicely using clips and film-themed images for a subtle, but fun intro.
EXTRAS: One deleted scene as well as a short interview with director Milos Forman about the film and his work during the time period. I found the interview included on the "Fireman's Ball" DVD more interesting.
Final Thoughts: "Loves of a Blonde" is a well-acted and enjoyable feature, but it never gained my attention as fully as "Firemen's Ball" did. Criterion's DVD presents the film with good audio/video quality, but only minor supplements. Still, recommended for those interested or Forman fans.
Film Grade
The Film ***
DVD Grades
Video 85/B = (340/400 possible points)
Audio: 79/C+ = (316/400 possible points)
Extras: 71/C = (213/300 possible points)
Menus: 86/B = (172/200 possible points)
Value: 81/B = (243/300 possible points)
TOTAL POINTS:1284/1600
DVD GRADE:B-/80%
FILM GRADE: ***
DVD GRADE: B-
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