Ruzena Slemrová

Early Czech wartime comedy

The title refers to the office of records in the basement of a large company... sort of the place where a troublesome employee may be dumped in a dead end job. If fact, the story is a simple romantic comedy, with Burian as the kindly old stick-in-the-mud who helps the young man to sort out his romance with the daughter of the company's owner.

Many local dignitaries are gathered at an auction organized by the notary Dr Jan Karas (Oldrich Nový) at Lucín castle to sell off the belongings of the late count. Most interest is aroused by a portrait of a beautiful noble girl, but no-one buys it because it is said to be cursed. Until the young count arrives to decide what to do with the portrait, Karas keeps it at home. Fascinated by the beauty of the girl, Karas spends hours in front of the portrait. (imdb)

Undertaker Pleticha gets a phone call from his superior. He has to buy a wedding gift and deliver it to the bosses relatives. The address given is for organizing a funeral. When he realizes his mistake Pleticha in return for entertainment showcase wedding guests with songs and dances of various nations. His exploits continues....

Rich spinster Berta celebrates her sixtieth birthday. Her faithful admirer Dr. Jelinek proposes. But Berta can not forget Edward, the great love of her life, and refuses the offer...

Leopold Kohák married a rich widow a long time ago and now he has nothing to do compared to his energetic wife. He's growing old and troubled by the fact that he betrayed his first love Emca and his beloved river Sázava where he spent his childhood and youth. A visit from an old friend Lebeda brings it all back to him. After a nervous breakdown Leopold secretly visits his home instead of going to the spa. As a tramp wandering from place to place he supports himself by casual labor.

One day Chazaj pays a visit to the poor artist Simon and asks him to paint his portrait. Simon agrees but in the end he commits suicide. After Chazaj's death, the picture changes hands and brings misfortune to all who own it.

"Soup for Poor Children" tells the story of how Prince Robert himself cooked soup for poor children, "The Meeting of the Municipal Council in Mejdlovary" is the history of the filling of the post of municipal policeman, "The Troubles of Mr. Tenkrat" shows how strange events lead to marriage and promotion, "The Revolt of Convict Sejba" describes the victorious struggle of Convict Sejba for a dumpling for the altar at mass.

The story takes place in a town called "Lázně Džbery pod Skalou" (703 m above sea level) in 1925. The Dyndery councilor family arrives at the spa with their two daughters, Věra and Alena. They traditionally stay in the guesthouse "U kamenného stolu". Mrs. Boženka Tatrmužová, the wife of the innkeeper, comes to welcome them to the coach.