Pustina

Wasteland proves that even in Czech Republic (though under the HBO label) there can be made a miniseries of international quality. The rest of czech TV production doesn't hold a candle to it.

Visual style and atmosphere inspired by nordic crime shows, great acting, character development, dialogues, pacing, soundtrack, direction... Sure, it also has some drawbacks. For example some sub-plots were unnecessary, the detective storyline could be better and the miniseries sometimes feels a bit too self-aware of its own superiority.

However, nothing can change the fact that Wasteland is one of the best Czech works in a long, long time.

First Think I noticed about this show right off the get is that the acting is great and not Hollywood. The suspense sort of just seeps in slowly as you feel you are living it with this small town.

Stumbled on to this series browsing the contents of HBO Nordic, looking for a break from the ordinary, mostly American content. Decided to give this one a try, and very pleased that I did.

I don't speak a word of Czech, so I had to rely on the subtitles to get the dialogue. In spite of this, I was very impressed by the acting throughout. Almost a documentary feeling, very authentic and true. As good as the acting is, though, it's the cinematography that takes the prize. It's first rate and really tells the tale even on its own. The photography is mesmerizing at times.

The setting, in a run down rural eastern European village, is very vividly portrayed, with great affection and intimate detail. The decaying old cold war, Soviet era infrastructure and mind set of the people jumps out of the screen and really comes to life.

The determined attention to detail in the writing, directing, acting and photography all attest to the dedication of the people involved to really make this one count - and it does, among the best. Excellent!

Really interesting to see that part of the world, people customs, and institutions etc. Way too long. Too many long scenes of grieving or driving etc. Had to fast forward through scenes that added nothing to the story.

Well written story and acted though. Needed edit of at least 2 hours.

And what a surprise! I think HBO is just wonderful for distributing these types of 'real' works. The story is mesmerizing and sad.. cinematically - perfection. With such a dynamic story - I'm quite sure to hold my interest. More to say as I watch more... I'm only just finished with the 1st episode but felt compelled to review regardless. Give this 1 a try-you certainly won't be disappointed in the top-notch acting and story-telling.