If you think CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) is the pinnacle of film magic, you probably haven’t seen the films of Karel Zeman. This Czech film wizard created a world full of flying ships, mechanical creatures, and breathtaking adventures—without a single digital effect. We set out to explore the unique Karel Zeman Museum, hidden in the heart of Prague’s Malá Strana.
A Genius or a Time traveler?
Karel Zeman was a filmmaker who took old-school special effects and turned them into pure visual masterpieces. Imagine combining Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci, and someone with infinite patience for hand-drawn animation—that’s Zeman in a nutshell. His films, such as Journey to the Beginning of Time, The Fabulous World of Jules Verne, On the Comet, and The Fabulous Baron Munchausen, still look incredible today. And that’s in an era where AI struggles to convincingly erase Superman’s mustache (nice try, though).
We spoke with Tamara Petržilová, the museum’s PR and marketing director, to learn more about this fascinating place.
So we asked Tamara
What’s your first memory of Karel Zeman’s work?
Love at first sight! It was Krabat – The Sorcerer’s Apprentice during Christmas. My brother and I sat on the couch, holding our breath as the sinister sorcerer lured boys into his service. That was my first encounter with Karel Zeman.
Was it difficult to create a museum in such a prestigious location?
It was a beautiful coincidence. Three film-loving friends once discussed what was missing in the Czech film world. They all grew up watching Zeman’s films but hadn’t seen them in years. Their first idea was to release his films on DVD—at that time, they were buried in archives, unseen on TV for ages.
They approached Ludmila Zemanová, Karel Zeman’s daughter, who lives in Canada and works as an illustrator. She had just returned from Japan, where Zeman’s films had an exhibition. The question arose: Why doesn’t Karel Zeman have an exhibition in the Czech Republic? That sparked the idea for the Karel Zeman Museum, dedicated to preserving and promoting his genius.
This October, we’re celebrating our 13th anniversary! 🎉
Wow
Is this the only Karel Zeman Museum in the Czech Republic?
Yes! We are the only institution offering a deep dive into Karel Zeman’s work, his most iconic films, and the techniques that continue to influence cinema today.
What can visitors expect?
The Karel Zeman Museum is like a rejuvenating time machine! Older visitors who grew up with his films suddenly feel like young adventurers again. Zeman didn’t just make films for kids—he wanted to spark joy, surprise, and a sense of wonder about the world.
The whole exhibition is interactive. You can try out optical illusions, green-screen effects, and even “fly” on the famous cannon from The Fabulous Baron Munchausen (okay, not literally, but the video effect is convincing!). Last year, we introduced an audio guide in “kidspeak,” explaining Zeman’s tricks in a fun way. Children today grow up with CGI and often can’t imagine that movies were once painstakingly created by hand.
For example, Journey to the Beginning of Time used a film reel over 2.5 kilometers long—just learning that sparks their curiosity!
Do visitors need to book in advance?
Nope! We’re right on Kampa Island, Saská 3, just a few steps from Charles Bridge. We’re open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM and ready for all adventurers. 🚀
A dive into a Magical World
The moment you step into the museum, you feel like you’ve been pulled into another dimension. The decorations, set pieces, and interactive elements transport you straight into Zeman’s films.
How did Zeman dreate his films?
Slowly, meticulously, and with a touch of magic. One of the museum’s most fascinating sections reveals the secrets behind his special effects. Unlike today’s costly CGI, Zeman relied on a flawless mix of miniatures, perspective tricks, animation, and live-action performances. He was creating 3D-like illusions long before digital graphics existed.
At the museum, you can try your hand at front projection, a technique where actors performed in front of a glass pane with painted backgrounds. So if you ever wondered how Zeman’s characters could run through illustrated landscapes—yes, that’s exactly how it was done!
Why is the Karel Zeman Museum a global rarity?
- Museum is one-of-a-kind – run with the help of Zeman’s daughter.
- It’s interactive – not only can you touch exhibits, but you can become part of them. Have you ever tried riding a mechanical flying bicycle?
- Showcases film history – If you prefer practical effects over green screens, this place is a holy grail.
- Nostalgy and inspiration – A reminder that creativity doesn’t need a massive budget.
- Feel fun for all ages – Kids get to explore, while adults marvel at how these films were even made.
Leaving with our Heads in the Clouds
After visiting the museum, you might feel ready to build your own flying machine or at least make a film without CGI. And yes, we all tried the cannon ride—because how could we not?
If you ever find yourself near Charles Bridge in Prague, take a detour into Zeman’s world of fantasy. Just be warned—you might walk out convinced that you, too, can fly! 🚀
