Masterclass by director Martin Pavel Repka offered a sensitive insight into the making of his debut
04. June 2025
Can a film be powerful even when seemingly "nothing happens" in it? This question was addressed in a masterclass by director Martin Pavel Repka, aptly titled The Construction of Seeming Mundane. The director presented his approach to storytelling, which relies on everyday fleeting moments and the subtle nuances of human relationships.
Using the example of his feature debut March to May, which was made on a minimal budget, Repka shared specific experiences from the creative process and the pitfalls of filmmaking. He spoke openly about the obstacles he encountered - from financial constraints to rejection to his own creative doubts. He also offered practical insights that he admitted he wished he had known before embarking on his debut.
The masterclass also included behind-the-scenes footage that revealed Repka's working method. He was particularly interested in how to capture a story in which "nothing happens" but something is still happening.
Martin Pavol Repka graduated with a Bachelor's degree from the Department of Directing at FAMU in Prague and in his student films he focused mainly on the themes of family and friendship. His debut March to May was highly acclaimed - it won the Special Jury Mention in the Proxima competition at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, was screened at a number of international festivals, and won the Golden Icicle for Best Feature Film at the Pilsen Film Festival. Repka also became the Discovery of the Year at the Czech Film Critics Awards and was nominated for the Czech Lion for Best Director and Best Film.
