Tko pjeva zlo ne misli

Tko pjeva zlo ne misli, or He Who Sings Means No Harm, is a well-loved 1970 Croatian film, directed by the acclaimed Krešo Golik. This timeless movie features exceptional performances from renowned actors such as Franjo Majetic, Mirjana Bohanec, and Relja Basic. Adapted from the satirical writings of Vjekoslav Majer, the film is a captivating fusion of drama, comedy, and romance genres, encased within a nostalgic framework of family values and societal norms from the 1930s period.

Set in the idyllic backdrop of Zagreb, Croatia in the early 1930s, Tko pjeva zlo ne misli offers a charming view of the city’s life, its customs, traditions, and the interpersonal relationships during the pre-war period. The story revolves primarily around the character of Ana Šafranek (played by Mirjana Bohanec) and her husband, Franjo Šafranek, portrayed by Franjo Majetic. The couple live a peaceful middle-class life, along with their young daughter, in the dynamic neighborhood of “Donji Grad”. The enthralling protagonist, Franjo Šafranek, is a liquor salesman, known for his kind-heartedness, jovial spirit, and love for song. His character is the embodiment of the movie’s title, exemplifying the theme that one who sings carries no ill intentions.

The narrative unfolds through the film from a humorous diary being written by the ever-curious Mr. Fulir (Relja Basic), a self-proclaimed ladies' man and witty seducer, who recently moved into the same neighborhood. In the role of Mr.Fulir, Basic offers a colorful portrayal of a charming opportunist, toting around an accordion and a repertoire of amusing songs, equally capable of charming ladies and stirring up mischief in the peaceful neighborhood. This addition of a charismatic antagonist breathes a fresh life into the tranquility of the Šafranek family's life, leading to a series of humorous and dramatic events that simultaneously evoke laughter and empathy.

As the narrative unravels, the audience is shown a rich tapestry of human relationships and distinctive characters that are both engaging and relatable. The relationship between Ana and Franjo explores the dynamics of marital life, love, jealousy, and forgiveness. The characters are human and flawed, making the narrative believable and relatable. However, despite the realistic portrayal of its characters, the film never loses its prevalent sense of humor and merriment.

Furthermore, the film’s script has a thoughtful eye for detailing the period it is set in. From the atmospheric set design, delightful music, and costumes, everything helps create a vivid picture of Zagreb's lifestyle in the 1930s. The soundtrack of this film especially deserves a mention; it perfectly complements the film's atmosphere, setting the right mood for each scene with a blend of popular sings from that era and original scores.

Beyond the solid script, direct Krešo Golik's adept storytelling should not be overlooked. Golik manages to create a wholesome film that is rich in texture and substance; he brings the characters and the town to life with such vividness that the audience can almost feel a part of it.

Tko pjeva zlo ne misli does not only serve as a story of one family or one neighborhood; it is also a charming snapshot of 1930s Zagreb, a time capsule capturing the essence of a bygone era. It offers a nostalgic viewing experience, reminding the audience of a simpler time's charm, innocence, and slightly convoluted humor.

In summary, Tko pjeva zlo ne misli is a cinematic gem that demonstrates the power of light-hearted storytelling. It explores the complexities of human relationships, societal norms, and personal values with an even mix of humor, satire, love, and drama. Its radiant characters, delightful songs, and picturesque portrayal of 1930s Zagreb make this film an unforgettable watch. Even after five decades since its release, this movie remains a timeless classic, providing endless enjoyment for generations of viewers. Whether it's for its humorous narrative, the performances by its stellar cast, or the nostalgic portrayal of Zagreb it captures, Tko pjeva zlo ne misli is undoubtedly a must-watch for all fans of Croatian cinema.