Czech Director Ondřej Provazník’s Broken Voices Explores Choir Abuse and #MeToo Legacy with Authenticity and Care

Czech writer-director Ondřej Provazník was inspired to create his powerful feature drama Broken Voices after a striking encounter in 2004 during his time at Prague’s prestigious film school, FAMU. Overhearing former members of the Bambini di Praga girls’ choir singing to their disgraced former choirmaster, Bohumil Kulínský Jr., who faced charges of sexual abuse against choir members, Provazník was struck by the complex loyalty and pain surrounding the case.

Although the disturbing events happened years earlier, it was only with the rise of the #MeToo movement in 2017 that Provazník began developing the script, recognizing the trial as a precursor to #MeToo and its lasting impact on Czech society. His film, which premiered at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) and competes for the Crystal Globe, fictionalizes this tragic story to explore the intersection of innocence and abusive power within a world-famous choir in early 1990s Czech Republic.

The story follows 13-year-old Karolina (Kateřina Falbrová), who earns a coveted place in the choir alongside her older sister (Maya Kintera). Under the watchful eye of the enigmatic choirmaster Machá (Juraj Loj), Karolina’s rising talent brings both triumph and disturbing consequences. Provazník’s sensitive direction addresses the delicate balance between loyalty, trauma, and betrayal faced by victims and enablers alike.

To ensure authenticity, Provazník conducted extensive research and spoke with women on both sides of the choir’s history—those who accused Kulínský and those who remained loyal to him. This nuanced perspective forms the core mystery of the film, shedding light on the complicated dynamics of abuse and allegiance.

Having co-directed documentaries such as A Town Called Hermitage and Coal in the Soul, Provazník’s documentary background informs his commitment to realism and authenticity in his fiction work. Lead actress Falbrová’s real-life choir experience adds to the film’s genuineness, with all singing scenes performed live and recorded on set by professional choir singers from the Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir.

Provazník and his team prioritized the safety and well-being of the young actors throughout production. Intimacy coordinators and open communication with parents ensured a trauma-sensitive environment on set, with the director emphasizing the importance of protecting the cast from further harm.

Broken Voices stands out as a deeply empathetic exploration of sexual abuse, trauma, and resilience within a cultural institution, supported by a hauntingly authentic soundtrack and powerful performances.

The 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival runs through July 12, where Broken Voices is receiving critical acclaim.