On a jeho sestra: A Charming Glimpse into Old Czech Comedy

Alright, so you’ve stumbled across On a jeho sestra, and you’re wondering if this old Czech film from way back is worth your time today. Good question! I’d say, if you have a soft spot for really early European comedies, especially the ones featuring the legendary Vlasta Burian, then yes, absolutely. You’ll probably enjoy its simple charm. For anyone expecting modern pacing or slick production, you might find yourself a bit lost. It’s definitely a film for those who appreciate cinema history and a particular kind of earnest humor. 🎭

The whole thing centers around Brabec, played by Burian, who’s a postman. But not just any postman. He’s got this incredible comedic timing, even just delivering letters. He’s basically the life of the party at the local revue theatre, even though he’s just bringing mail to the director, Holt. Burian’s energy here is just *infectious*. You can tell he’s just having a blast with every little gesture, every quick facial shift. There’s a scene where he’s trying to explain something, and his hands just take over. It’s wonderful.

His sister, Anny (played by Anny Ondra, who you might know from some early Hitchcock films!), works as a maid for the theatre’s demanding star, Veldenová. Anny, bless her heart, clearly dreams of being on that stage herself. You see it in her eyes sometimes, when she’s just quietly doing chores. She watches Veldenová with this intense, almost yearning look. It’s subtle, but it’s there.

The plot, such as it is, really kicks into gear when Veldenová decides, just before a big opening night, that she hates her part and quits. Just like that. The director, Holt, is in a complete panic, naturally. This is where Brabec, being the quick thinker he is, sees his chance to help his sister. He knows Anny’s practically memorized every line and song while listening from the wings.

There's this moment when Brabec is trying to convince Holt, and he’s doing these little bits of physical comedy, almost accidentally. It’s not even part of the official show, but it’s more entertaining than some of the stuff they’re actually rehearsing. His presence just fills the screen. You can't look away from him.

And Anny, when she finally gets her shot, she just *shines*. It’s a classic underdog story, but it’s told with such sincerity. You really root for her. You almost forget she was just dusting furniture moments before. The transition is a little abrupt, mind you. One minute she’s a maid, the next she’s basically the lead. But it’s a comedy, so you just go with it.

One thing that struck me was the costumes. They’re really quite elaborate for the theatre scenes. And the background extras in some of the crowd shots – they’re not always looking at the stage. Sometimes they’re just chatting amongst themselves, which feels very real, almost like you’re actually there, peeking in from the wings. It’s a nice, small detail.

The whole ‘secret author’ thing for the new revue? Honestly, it kind of gets lost in the shuffle. It’s mentioned, then it’s not really a factor. It feels like a setup that just fades away as the focus shifts entirely to Anny getting her big break. Not every plot thread needs to be tied up with a neat bow, I guess.

Watching No Other Woman or Mary Regan, you get a different vibe. This one, it’s got a very specific, almost innocent charm. It’s not trying to be anything deep. It’s just trying to make you laugh and feel good. And mostly, it succeeds at that. It’s like a warm hug from a simpler time. 🤗

The pacing might feel a little slow if you’re used to modern comedies that rush from gag to gag. Here, scenes sometimes linger a bit, letting the characters breathe. It allows Burian’s expressions to really land. He doesn’t need quick cuts; his face does all the work. The silent moments, even just a long pause, speak volumes.

Final thoughts? It’s a sweet, unpretentious film. Don't go in expecting a masterpiece of narrative complexity. Expect a showcase for two charming actors and a simple, feel-good story. It’s like finding an old, slightly worn photo that still makes you smile. The kind of film you watch on a lazy Sunday afternoon, a cup of tea in hand. ☕