Miro Remo's 'Better Go Mad in the Wild' Triumphs at Karlovy Vary

In a remarkable turn of events at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, Slovak filmmaker Miro Remo's documentary "Better Go Mad in the Wild" has captured the prestigious Crystal Globe award. The festival, renowned for showcasing international cinematic talent, took place from July 1 to July 9, 2025, in the picturesque town of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. This year's event featured a diverse array of films, but Remo's work stood out for its unique storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

"Better Go Mad in the Wild" introduces viewers to František and Ondřej Klišík, a pair of eccentric identical twins residing in the remote Bohemian Forest region of the Czech Republic. The film artfully juxtaposes their unconventional lifestyle with broader societal themes, echoing the classic documentary style reminiscent of the Maysles brothers' iconic 1975 film "Grey Gardens." Like the subjects of that film, the Klišík brothers lead a life of peculiar charm and quiet rebellion against societal norms.

Remo's documentary not only highlights the twins' quirky daily lives but also uncovers their surprising historical significance. The brothers were active participants in the Velvet Revolution of 1989, a pivotal movement that led to the end of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia. According to Dr. Ivan Novák, a historian at Charles University in Prague, the film presents a fascinating lens through which to view the impact of political upheaval on individual lives. "The Klišík brothers are emblematic of a generation that navigated the complexities of post-Communist identity," Dr. Novák stated in an interview on July 10, 2025.

The narrative is enriched by the film's unique narrator—a philosophical bull named Nandy—who offers insights into the twins' lives and their philosophical musings on existence. As they engage in introspective conversations, often while partaking in their rustic lifestyle, viewers are drawn into a world that balances humor with poignant reflections on life and individuality. Nevertheless, some critics have noted that while the film is visually engaging and filled with charming eccentricities, it may lack a deeper exploration of the brothers' historical context. Damon Wise, a film critic for Deadline, remarked, "While the film captures the Klišík brothers' eccentricities beautifully, it sometimes feels like it skims over the profound implications of their past."

The documentary's success at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival is a testament to its compelling storytelling and the universal themes it addresses. Festival director Jiří Barta emphasized the significance of Remo's win, stating, "This film resonates deeply with audiences, illustrating not just the idiosyncrasies of two men living on the margins, but also the enduring human spirit and the quest for authenticity in a rapidly changing world."

As audiences worldwide engage with "Better Go Mad in the Wild," it raises questions about the intersection of personal identity and historical narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on their own lives in relation to broader societal changes. The film's implications extend beyond its immediate subjects, offering a commentary on the nature of freedom, self-expression, and the complexity of familial bonds in contemporary society.

Looking forward, Miro Remo's work is poised to inspire further discussions about the role of documentary filmmaking in exploring cultural and political themes. As the cinematic landscape evolves, films like "Better Go Mad in the Wild" will continue to challenge audiences to look beyond the surface and engage with the deeper stories that shape our world. The film will likely find its place in the canon of important documentaries that illuminate the nuances of human experience, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling in understanding our collective history.