The film is exceptional not only for its content, but also because it is the first documentary film produced by CTU in 78 years. The last time the university was behind a film project was in 1947. With this step, CTU is returning to its own cultural tradition and reminding us of the importance of sharing stories that shape our national identity.
Students and graduates of CTU – specifically from the Faculty of Information Technology and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering – also played a significant role in the creation of the film. The main cameraman and editor is Lukáš Jančička, whose sensitive visual style and precise work give the film a strong narrative value.
The legendary Dalibor Lipský participated in the final editing as editing supervisor, bringing his many years of experience and distinctive professional style to the project.
The music for the film was created by Beata Hlavenková and Petr Skočdopole, whose original compositions underscore the atmosphere and emotional depth of the entire story.
"Czech Hearts of Banat" is not just a film about compatriots. It is also a profound reflection on what it means to be Czech, even when you live hundreds of kilometers from home. We wanted to portray a community that, even after two centuries, preserves its language, customs, and relationship to Czech culture. It is our way of thanking our compatriots and a gift for the 200th anniversary of the founding of the villages," says director Jiřina Šimková.
"During our trips to the Czech Banat, we gradually began to realize that there was a bigger story unfolding around us than we had expected. It is a great honor for me, but also a challenge, to document events in this gem of Czech culture and Romanian nature," adds chief cameraman Lukáš Jančička, a graduate in the field of artificial intelligence.
The film was produced by the Czech Technical University in Prague and is intended for the general public—anyone interested in documentary film, history, migration, and Czech roots abroad. "Czech Hearts of Banat" will be shown in cinemas from December, and the screenings will be accompanied by discussions with the filmmakers and compatriots.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)