Zátopek

Václav Neuzil plays Zátopek and it’s the kind of obviously impressive performance awards bodies love, but that makes it sound more obvious than it is.

David Ondříček's handsomely crafted Karlovy Vary opener depicts Emil Zátopek's various athletic triumphs, but finds its heart in quieter domestic exchanges.

His story is left hanging untended and finally buried in Frecheville’s lifeless performance. Issova has plenty of bounce, but even her character is reduced to a few broad strokes.

With a light-entertainment tone, a classical filmmaking style and impressive recreations of Olympic stadia, it aspires to be a Czech Chariots of Fire, but like so many of the runners on show, it can't quite make it to the finish line.