From the Archives: recalling a Film Shoot with Ivan Jonák and Director Vít Olmer
By Archyde.com Staff Writer
The Wild West of Post-Revolutionary Entrepreneurship
The early 1990s in the Czech Republic where a breeding ground for entrepreneurs, some legitimate, others less so. Coming after the blast of Chernobyl, the buisness landscape was ripe with opportunities, not all of them savory.A former journalist reflects on that era, recalling a time when anyone could claim the title of “entrepreneur.” While many sought honest work, a darker element began to emerge, drawing the attention of law enforcement. The crimes ranged from petty offenses to serious,organized operations.
“Nudity for Sale”: When Crime Met Cinema
It was during this period that journalist Josef Klíma and director Vít olmer collaborated on a screenplay for a film titled Nudity for Sale. If you missed it originally,copies can still be found in archives. Beyond its controversial title, the film boasted quality music composed by ondřej Soukup and cinematography by Juraj Fandli.
Jiří Pomeje and a Role Beyond the Romantic Lead
The journalist, writing hear, recalls being invited to the set of Nudity for Sale, in part because of a connection with actor Jiří Pomeje.Pomeje, known for roles outside the typical romantic lead, played a character that fit his persona.
Dobřichovice Chateau: A Night of Fire and Mayhem
Flash forward to Dobřichovice Chateau, where a night shoot was underway. The scene involved dramatic stunts, featuring gunfire and explosions. Stuntmen were essential,and among those cast was Ivan Jonák, owner of the infamous Libeň Discoland. His presence was a marketing boon for the film,as jonák essentially played himself: a flamboyant character in a white suit,driving a large Jeep,and exuding an aura of wealth and power.
Did you know? Ivan Jonák’s Discoland was notorious for its wild parties and alleged connections to organized crime.
Jonák’s Impatience and a Dip in the Berounka
Jonák, notoriously impatient, disliked waiting, both at Discoland and on the film set. Preparing the stunt work fell to Jaroslav Tomsa and Lada Lahoda, renowned stunt coordinators. One stunt required Petr Drozda, a former wrestler and Olympian, to perform a burning scene. Despite the demanding nature of the stunts, Jonák grew restless. He then proposed that the journalist accompany him to experience what his Jeep could do.
An Unscheduled Car Wash: Jonák Takes a Plunge
Ignoring fuel consumption, Jonák drove at high speeds before deciding to drive the Jeep into the Berounka River. The river was shallow, and the water provided a refreshing respite from the summer heat. However, his impromptu swim was cut short when he drove onto the riverbank and was greeted by flashing lights and police officers.
but Mr. jonák, what are you doing here, do you know that the car is not driving in the river?
Jonák, amused, reportedly pulled out a wad of cash and offered it to the officers, stating, Here you have a liter, and that’s good, I’ll go back!
The police were not amused.
Pro tip: Never offer bribes to law enforcement, no matter how disarming you think you are.
“I’m Making a Movie!”
Despite the officers’ disapproval, Jonák, attempting to charm his way out of the situation, added, Gentlemen, don’t be angry, I make a movie with director Olmer, and I have to make it.
ultimately,the police,while not thrilled,allowed Jonák to film the re-start of the engine and return to the set. The incident caused laughter and delayed the shoot. Even the strict director, Vít Olmer, struggled to maintain order.
Police did not want to like it, but fortunately they did not decide, but could still see the river bustle around the mansion. Ivan filmed the engine and we went back. We returned so much in time that he could show off to anyone he met. It took a long time for everyone to be able to return to work to get rid of laughter seizures.
FAQ: Reflecting on the Era
- Who was Ivan Jonák?
- Ivan Jonák was the owner of the notorious Discoland in Prague,a central figure in the city’s nightlife and,allegedly,its criminal underworld during the 1990s.
- What was “Nudity for Sale” about?
- The article does not state specifically what the movie was about, however, it implies the movie was focused on the early 90s in the Czech Republic when the Criminal landscape was expanding from small offenses to serious, organized operations
- What was Vít Olmer known for?
- Vít Olmer was a well-known Czech film director. The article indicates he was a “pretty strict director” and known for working quickly and to schedule.
- Why was Ivan Jonák cast in the film?
- Jonák was cast for marketing purposes and because he was essentially playing a version of himself.
What is the legacy of “Nudity for Sale” adn, more broadly, this era of Czech cinema? Does it remain relevant today?
Interview: Reflecting on the Wild Days of Czech Cinema with Film Historian, Dr. Zuzana Nováková
Archyde News Editor: Dr. Nováková, welcome. Thank you for joining us to discuss this captivating incident from the early 1990s Czech film scene, specifically the filming of “Nudity for Sale”. Can you give our readers a brief overview of the era’s cinematic landscape?
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: Thank you for having me. The early 90s were an exciting, chaotic, and frankly, somewhat unpredictable time for Czech cinema.The fall of communism opened doors for artistic freedom, but also for financial opportunism. self-reliant films were being produced with varying degrees of professionalism and a new breed of “entrepreneur” began to influence all aspects of society, including filmmaking.
The Intersection of Cinema and the “Underworld”
Archyde News Editor: The article mentions the involvement of someone like Ivan Jonák, owner of the infamous Discoland. What does this tell us about the blurring lines between the film industry and the more, shall we say, unorthodox sides of society at that time?
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: Jonák’s presence on the set of “Nudity for Sale” is illustrative of how certain figures from what we might delicately call the “business” community were able to insert themselves into the film world.In a way, it was symbiotic. Filmmakers sought publicity and perhaps, funding. These individuals, conversely, saw an opportunity for self-promotion and social prestige. Jonák was essentially leveraging the film for his own image.
The Incident on the Berounka River
Archyde News Editor: The story of Jonák’s impromptu dip in the Berounka River during filming is quite memorable. What impact did this incident and his general demeanor have on the set?
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: It highlights Jonák’s disregard for the rules, both written and unwritten.Reports suggest he was impatient and perhaps used to getting his way.The incident with the police,while humorous in retrospect,speaks to a certain brazen attitude. it disrupted the filming and delayed production, but the story also became a legend about the film, increasing interest and intrigue. It shows the clash between law and the entertainment world.
Vít Olmer’s Directorial Style and Beyond
Archyde News Editor: The article also mentions the director, Vít Olmer. What was Olmer’s reputation as a director, and how did he manage to work, with a character like Jonák on set?
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: Olmer was a respected director, known for his efficiency and strict adherence to schedule. While the reports say he wasn’t thrilled, he may have recognized the undeniable publicity value that Jonák brought. It was a practical decision. Managing Jonák would have presented it’s own set of challenges. He wanted the film and he did what he had to do.
Reflections and Legacy
Archyde News Editor: Looking back, what’s the legacy of “Nudity for Sale” and, more broadly, this era of Czech cinema? Does it remain relevant today?
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: “Nudity for Sale” serves as a fascinating snapshot of that specific moment in time. It’s a film that reflects the anxieties, the excitement, and the unique challenges of post-revolutionary Czechoslovakia. The film itself is a reminder of a period of transition, and a reminder of those on the fringes that may or may not have deserved the spotlight. The incident with Jonák adds a layer of intrigue and illustrates the importance of the film. It certainly remains relevant. We can learn about the human aspect and the challenges faced during this period. The human element of film is immortal.
Archyde News Editor: Dr. Nováková, thank you so much for your time and insightful perspective. It has been a pleasure.
Dr. Zuzana Nováková: The pleasure was all mine.
