David Ondříček’s ‘Zátopek’ Leads 2022 Czech Lion Awards With Eight Wins
variety.comWilson Chapman editor“Zátopek,” director David Ondříček’s biopic about Olympic champion Emil Zátopek, dominated the 29th annual Czech Lion Awards, winning in eight categories across 13 nominations.The Czech Lion Awards were held on Saturday evening at Dvořák Hall in Prague’s Rudolfinum.
The awards, which are voted on by a 350-person jury of members from the Czech Film and Television Academy, are considered the highest film honors in the Czech Republic.During the ceremony, “Zátopek” won awards for best film, director, actor in a leading role, cinematography, editing, sound, production design and makeup and hairstyling.
Prior to the ceremony, it was also announced that the film had previously won the fan vote category at the awards, as well as an award for its poster design. “We deeply appreciate that the members of the Czech Film and Television Academy awarded the film ‘Zátopek,’ not only as best film, but also in so many other categories, reflecting the amazing work of the entire production team,” Ondříček said in a statement along with his co-producer Kryštof Mucha. “We have devoted more than ten years of preparation to ‘Zátopek,’ and all those who worked on the film have given not only their professionalism, but also their hearts.”“Zátopek” stars Václav Neužil, recipient of the Czech Lion for leading actor, as long-distance runner Emil Zátopek, who won four gold medals at the Olympics and is widely considered one of the greatest runners of all time.
Martha Issová portrays Zátopek’s wife and Olympic javelin-throwing champion Dana Zátopková, while James Frecheville portrays Olympic runner Ron Clarke.
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