A lengthy series of numerous animations comprise "Spalicek", also known as "The Czech Year." This animation is not available in the US, and can only be obtained via Amazon Japan, contained on the first volume of Jiri Trnka Film Works DVD collection.
As far as I can tell, "The Czech Year" might be more accurately described as "The Czech Seasons". Each short contains a simple story, somewhat related to the emotions and traditions associated with each season.
Like most of Trnka's work, the puppet designs are simple, but full of life. "Spalicek" doesn't have the same refinement of Trnka's later work, but is wonderful as his first big foray into puppet animation.
Since I am not fluent in the Czech language, this series of shorts can be a little difficult to watch. A great deal of story information is sung and spoken rather than acted. Still, there are great bits of animation, visuals, and music to keep things somewhat interesting.
As far as I can tell, "The Czech Year" might be more accurately described as "The Czech Seasons". Each short contains a simple story, somewhat related to the emotions and traditions associated with each season.
Like most of Trnka's work, the puppet designs are simple, but full of life. "Spalicek" doesn't have the same refinement of Trnka's later work, but is wonderful as his first big foray into puppet animation.
Since I am not fluent in the Czech language, this series of shorts can be a little difficult to watch. A great deal of story information is sung and spoken rather than acted. Still, there are great bits of animation, visuals, and music to keep things somewhat interesting.