This engaging KVIFF opener depicts the tremendous and turbulent journey of one of the 20th century’s finest athletes: Czechoslovak long-distance runner, Emil Zátopek. Václav Neužil immerses himself as the Olympic champion who made history at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games.

“Zatopek” captures the runner’s never-again-achieved record three gold medals with electric energy and fervour. But director David Ondříček also finds the person behind the icon, turning his attention also to Zatopek’s wife, champion javelin thrower Dana Zátopková, and friend, Australian long-distance runner, Ron Clarke (charmingly played by Aussie James Frecheville).

“Zatopek’’ captures the intensity and greatness of the man’s sporting achievements, and sheds light on the personal stories that greatly affected his life, too.

This screening of Zatopek is dedicated to John Zika.

A ticket to the Opening Night Melbourne includes a drink upon arrival with nibbles, live music, a dance performance from Liptár Folk Dance Group, and a 10th-year anniversary special edition CaSFFA tote bag. The event starts at 6.30 pm, screening at 7.30 pm. 

A ticket to the Opening Night Canberra includes a drink upon arrival with nibbles. The event starts at 6.00 pm, screening at 7.00 pm.

A ticket to the Opening Night Adelaide includes a drink upon arrival with nibbles and live music performance. The event starts at 6.00 pm, screening at 7.00 pm.