Teddybear

A narrative that is not as soft, cuddly, and carefree as its title implies — but by no means lacking in warmth—TEDDYBEAR is a brief examination of the complexity of human relationships, centered around three men and their martial woes. The film not only fleshes-out the bond between husband and wife, but it also explores the connection between parents and children, siblings and friends. Jirka, Roman, and Ivan are childhood friends who have suddenly found themselves in their 30s—established, married and with families. All three of the men seem to be in the prime of their lives…but are their wives? This disparity between husband and wife leads to acts of betrayal, infidelity, and defiance, unraveling the picture-perfect worlds of the three happy couples. But will it be tragedy for all involved? No stranger to the CIFF, (“Cozy Dens” 23rd CIFF, “Beauty in Trouble” 31st CIFF), director Jan Hřebejk presents TEDDYBEAR, a film that is about more than the disintegrating love between two people; it is a discovery of the potential and the means of the individual to fail or triumph in the aftermath of emotional devastation. (In Czech with English subtitles) – D.M.