Is Ki lesz a bálanya Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1977)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of TV Movie, Drama cinema, the 1977 release of Ki lesz a bálanya stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Adapted from István Csurka's play of the same name. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of TV Movie, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Adapted from István Csurka's play of the same name. Four men often get together in the evenings to play poker, big money is lost, often without any collateral. During heated arguments, it becomes clear during the break between playing cards that these people once had the opportunity to live differently. They were talented, but now they are neither on the right nor the left, and in their own words, they live in nihilism."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The performance by Péter Haumann is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Péter Haumann captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Dömölky János is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 122 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Ki lesz a bálanya truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of TV Movie, Drama, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Ki lesz a bálanya explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1977 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Dömölky János respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Ki lesz a bálanya is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Péter Haumann or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Ki lesz a bálanya is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.