Peter Švrček comes from a middle-class family, has just finished his studies, and has a nice girlfriend. Despite all that, Peter is worried. He’s concerned about the future of Slovakia and the influx of immigrants. If there’s going to be a war, Peter wants to be prepared for it. So in his spare time he leads a paramilitary group with dozens of members. In their weekend training sessions, they wear fake uniforms and use dummy weapons, but they take their mission very seriously. The group gives lectures at high schools and helps out at folkloric events. Without passing judgement, director Jan Gebert observes the group’s rise in popularity.
These men are playing war games, but they’re no longer little kids. The group even wants to enter politics to protect what belongs to them and to keep Slovakia for the Slovaks. And as long as Peter and his helpers don’t break any laws, the government won’t intervene. The authorities turn a blind eye to their activities, despite the fact that their far-right leanings and fascist ideals are veiled in a paper-thin layer of decency.
GOOD TO KNOW
Director: Jan Gebert
Duration: 76 minutes
Subtitels: English subtitles
The open-air film starts after sundown, which is around 21:30. If it’s raining, the film will be screened indoors in the Genève hall. Drinks and snacks will be available on our terrace before the film starts.
More info & tickets: https://www.humanityhouse.org/en/event/when-the-war-comes/
