The life of Marcela, an ordinary Czech woman is explored throughout several decades of her life. The documentary observes several important societal issues. We are engaged to struggle and fight back with Marcela as her tragic life unfolds before our eyes especially, dealing with her daughter’s unexpected death which almost drives her to suicide. However, the responsibility she feels for her son who has a disability, gives her the will to survive.

The making of Marcela was initially part of a six-part series on Czech television about the fate of six married couples, but the events that happened throughout Marcela’s life lead to a wave of solidarity from the Czech public, who sent her money and personal support. This was the reason why Helena Třeštíková decided to focus solely on a documentary about Marcela. The distressing destiny of Marcela’s life and the act of human support from the Czech public was therefore, worthy to be expressed in this film. She is currently looking towards a better future.

Dir. Helena Třeštíková - 82min - 2006 - Czech Republic

"Muted, respectful and tinged with mystery as it traces 26 years in the life of its title citizen." - Variety