Death Behind a Curtain

Synopsis

Death Behind a Curtain (Smrt za oponou) is a 1967 Czechoslovak crime thriller featuring Lubomír Lipský. Set against the backdrop of post-war Europe, the story revolves around a mysterious murder that unfolds within the confines of a theatre, where appearances are deceptive and every character harbors secrets. As the protagonists delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover layers of intrigue, betrayal, and danger lurking behind the seemingly glamorous facade of the performing arts world. The film combines elements of suspense and drama, showcasing the tension between truth and illusion amid a web of theatrical intrigue.

Cast

• 

  Lubomír Lipský

  choreograf Laube

• Stanislav Šimek

  tanečník Procházka

• 

  Miroslav Horníček

  kapitán Chrástek

• 

  Jaroslav Satoranský

  poručík Mareček

• 

  Lenka Fišerová

  tanečnice Jana Pilátová

• 

  Gabriela Vránová

  průvodkyně zájezdů Alena Volná

Reviews

Critical reception of Death Behind a Curtain has been mixed over time. On IMDb, the film holds a mediocre rating of 4.8/10, reflecting a lukewarm response from general audiences. Many viewers appreciate the film's atmospheric depiction of a theatrical setting and the charismatic presence of Lubomír Lipský, whose performance adds depth to the otherwise straightforward narrative. However, critics often cite the pacing as uneven and the plot as somewhat predictable, lacking the complexity expected from a thriller. The film's black-and-white cinematography and classic 1960s production values receive recognition for their period authenticity, though some modern viewers find the style dated. While it holds nostalgic value for fans of Eastern European cinema of the era, Death Behind a Curtain may struggle to engage those seeking a tightly woven and innovative mystery thriller. No extensive reviews are found in major Western platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, reflecting its status as a niche film with limited international exposure.