Key Facts
Ivan Ostrochovský's latest film, 'Only Beautiful Things to Look At,' premiered at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival in July 2026. The drama exposes the Czechoslovakian government's racist program of forced sterilization of Roma women, which continued well into the 21st century in both the Czech and Slovak Republics. The film stars Anna Geislerová as Ingrid, a white doctor who performs sterilizations, and Simona Boledovičová as Agata, a Roma orderly.
Plot and Themes
The film opens with a montage of young Roma women photographed like studio portraits while an off-screen voice disingenuously claims that sterilization improves their quality of life. However, the narrative quickly shifts to Ingrid, who is passed over for a promotion and lives a beautiful life with her husband Maros (Vlad Ivanov) in a countryside home. Through her friendship with Agata, Ingrid begins to question the sterilizations she performs. The film also explores the strained relationship between Agata and her sister Jula (Eva Mores), who married within the Roma community and faces pressure to have more children.
Critical Analysis
While the film is visually stunning, thanks to cinematographer Juraj Chlpík, its focus on a white protagonist's moral awakening has drawn criticism. Reviewer Jessica Kiang notes that the film's 'attractive yet oddly bloodless presentation' gives the impression of a period drama set far in the past, robbing the atrocity of urgency. The Roma women are largely silent, and the narrative prioritizes Ingrid's perspective over theirs. The film's beauty becomes a liability, allowing viewers to distance themselves from the cruelty.
Impact and Relevance
The forced sterilization of Roma women is a historical crime that continues to have repercussions. By centering a white doctor, the film misses an opportunity to amplify Roma voices. However, the performances, particularly by Boledovičová and Mores, offer glimpses of a more compelling story about identity and survival. The film's ending, described as a 'glib miracle,' further undermines its impact.
FAQ
What is the film 'Only Beautiful Things to Look At' about?
The film exposes the Czechoslovakian government's program of forced sterilization of Roma women in the 1980s, focusing on a white female doctor's moral awakening.
Who directed 'Only Beautiful Things to Look At'?
The film is directed by Slovakian filmmaker Ivan Ostrochovský.
What are the main criticisms of the film?
Critics note that the film's beautiful cinematography and focus on a white protagonist soften the urgency of the atrocity, making it feel distant rather than immediate.
When was the film reviewed?
The review was published on July 11, 2026, after the film's premiere at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival.