Normal

Synopsis

Normal is a 2009 Slovak drama film directed by Marek Šulík featuring Milan Kňažko in a compelling role. The story centers on Rumen, a man facing an identity crisis as he navigates the complexities of life after decades of conformity. Set against the backdrop of societal transition in post-communist Slovakia, the film explores themes of personal freedom, family dynamics, and the struggle to reconcile past and present selves. Through intimate storytelling and nuanced performances, Normal delves into the human condition with authenticity, offering a reflective look at what it means to find normalcy in a changing world.

Cast

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  Milan Kňažko

  Peter Kürten

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  Pavel Gajdoš

  Advocate Wehner

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  Dagmar Havlová Veškrnová

  Marie Kürten

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  Zuzana Kajnarová

  Reception Clerk

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  Miroslav Táborský

  Klein

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  Jan Vlasák

  Wenge

Reviews

Normal received a mixed reception among critics and audiences. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.9/10, reflecting average viewer opinions that praised the thematic ambition but noted pacing issues. Critically, the film was appreciated for its sincere portrayal of internal conflict and strong acting, particularly by Milan Kňažko. However, some reviewers pointed out that the narrative's subtlety might be too understated for broader audience engagement. Reviews on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic are limited due to the film's niche market release, but regional critiques from Slovak and Central European media highlighted its cultural relevance and artistic approach. Overall, Normal is seen as a thoughtful, if somewhat slow, exploration of identity and societal pressures that resonates well within its context but may challenge viewers seeking conventional storytelling.