Czech cinema spotlight: 'Changes' finds Prague's loners all grown up

A quarter-century after his cult classic Loners, Czech writer-director David Ondříček returns to the uncertainties of modern Prague in Changes (Kluci to vidí jinak než holky), a sharply observed ensemble comedy about love, marriage and the disappointments of middle age that combines dark humor with an unusually authentic portrait of contemporary Prague.

Why watch now: The Prague Reporter praises the filmmaker's ability to capture "a generation that's grown older without necessarily growing wiser," highlighting the film's performances, humor, score by English musician Tom Falle, and striking cinematography showcasing autumn in Prague. Changes is now playing with English subtitles at Kino Světozor, Kino Lucerna, and Kino Atlas.

What else? Ondříček's Loners (Samotáři) became one of the defining Czech films of the early 2000s, capturing a generation of aimless young adults navigating relationships and uncertain futures in post-Velvet Revolution Prague. Written by Petr Zelenka, the 2000 comedy-drama follows seven interconnected characters, including a radio DJ, a manipulative travel agent and an enthusiastic marijuana smoker.

Why watch now: While Loners reflected the youthful optimism and confusion of a country adjusting to newfound freedom, Changes finds a similar generation confronting the compromises of middle age. Together, they offer complementary portraits of Prague and its inhabitants, separated by 26 years of social and cultural change. Stream Loners with English subtitles on Netflix in Czechia.