‘Waves’ captures thrill and tragedy of resistance at Prague radio station in ’68 - review

A review of the film 'Waves,' directed by Jiří Mádl, which dramatizes the true story of political opposition at a Prague radio station from 1967-1968. The film follows two orphaned brothers, Tomás and Paja, as they navigate the dangers of resistance against Soviet control, with Tomás pressured to inform on his colleagues. The review highlights the film's portrayal of the exhilaration and tragedy of resistance, its excellent ensemble cast, and its seamless integration of news footage. The reviewer draws parallels to contemporary Iranian protests, reflecting on the limits of resistance.

The film 'Waves,' directed by Jiří Mádl, is a historical drama based on true events at a Prague radio station from 1967-1968. It focuses on two orphaned brothers: Tomás, a quiet and sensitive young man preoccupied with providing for his teenage brother Paja, who is involved in political activism against Soviet control. Tomás gets a job as a technician at Czechoslovak Radio, working under the visionary news editor Milan Weiner. He is pressured by government officials to become an informer, threatening to place Paja in an orphanage if he does not cooperate. Tomás manages to play both sides, giving the secret police minimal information to keep the station functioning. The film details the events of the Prague Spring leading up to the 1968 Soviet invasion, incorporating news footage seamlessly. The review describes the film as a love letter to news radio and newspapers, set to a soundtrack of classic rock and Czech songs. The ensemble cast is praised, with Vojtech Vodochodský effectively conveying Tomás's tension. The reviewer draws a parallel to Iranian protests in January 2026, noting the sobering reality that the characters lived under the regime for another 21 years.