Hlava Medúzy

Hlava Medúzy is a crime drama directed by Filip Renč, with a cast full of familiar faces from the Czech acting scene. Honestly, I didn’t have huge expectations, but I at least hoped it would be a decent way to relax and enjoy seeing some actors I like in new roles. But man, the first episode really ticked me off—it’s amateur hour of the highest order. A classic case of B-grade crime TV. Jitka Čvančarová’s lead role felt forced and awkward, especially with her trying-too-hard tough persona and that hat... it was just cringe, which was disappointing because I usually like her. Jiří Dvořák was fine, but then Michal Isteník showed up sounding like his voice was being strangled, and that’s just not his usual style (I know from Most! and Kukačky that he’s capable of way more). Plus, from the first episode, they threw in a subplot with young Heřmánek that felt completely pointless and downright awful. It was like the show wasn’t even trying anymore. But hey, to keep it balanced, I’ll admit there was one solid episode—the sixth. For some reason, Marek Vašut chugging beers and playing his role worked for me, and it actually elevated the story a bit. Unfortunately, it’s not enough to save the rest, especially after that fashion show murder episode, where they butchered a "Born Slippy" cover in the background. That moment pretty much sums up the whole show. I don’t plan on ever watching this again, and it’s a shame that such a talented cast got stuck with this material. But, on to better things... hopefully. At the end of the day, though, Filip Renč remains a painfully average director. (13/03/2021)