Master Executioner (1966)
A Slovak historical drama of friendship shattered by betrayal, set along the Danube in the shadow of Ottoman raids.
Master Executioner - Movie Information
- Original Title: Majster kat
- Release Year: 1966
- Directed by: Paľo Bielik
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, History
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Original Language: Slovak
- Spoken Languages: Slovak
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 5, 1966 (XC)
- Production Companies: Štúdio hraných filmov Bratislava
- Production Countries: Czechoslovakia
Master Executioner - Plot
A dramatic story about two friends - fisherman Richardus and municipal executioner Emil Targo takes place at the river Danube, in places that used to be targets of Ottoman raids. But their attraction to the same woman and Emil's betrayal change their indissoluble friendship to an equally strong hatred. And as it usually goes - after twenty years by a trick of fate Richardus' daughter Agajka becomes the wife of the sun of his sworn enemy.
Where to Watch Master Executioner
Looking for where to watch Master Executioner?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Master Executioner - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Paľo Bielik
Main Cast
- Vlado Müller
- Štefan Kvietik
- Emília Vášáryová
- Peter Debnár
- Jozef Budský
- Zuzana Jariabková
- Oľga Adamčíková
- Eduard Bindas
- Daniel Michaelli
- František Dibarbora
Writers
- Paľo Bielik
Master Executioner - FAQs
Who are the main actors in Master Executioner?
The film stars Vlado Müller as the executioner Emil Targo and Štefan Kvietik as his friend Richardus. Emília Vášáryová, Peter Debnár, Jozef Budský, Oľga Adamčíková, and Eduard Bindas round out a strong ensemble cast in this 1966 Slovak historical drama.
What is Master Executioner about?
Master Executioner follows two inseparable friends — fisherman Richardus and municipal executioner Emil Targo — living along the Danube during the era of Ottoman raids. When both men fall for the same woman and Emil betrays his friend, their deep bond curdles into bitter hatred, with consequences that echo across generations.
Who directed Master Executioner?
Master Executioner was directed by Paľo Bielik, one of the most significant figures in Slovak cinema history. Bielik also wrote the screenplay, bringing a deeply personal creative vision to this tale of friendship, betrayal, and fate set against the turbulent backdrop of Ottoman-era Central Europe.
When was Master Executioner released?
Master Executioner had its release on August 5, 1966, in Czechoslovakia. The film is a product of Štúdio hraných filmov Bratislava and stands as a notable entry in the golden era of Slovak and Czechoslovak cinema during the 1960s.
What genre is Master Executioner?
Master Executioner is a historical drama. It blends the emotional intensity of a personal betrayal story with a richly evoked historical setting along the Danube, during a period when the region faced repeated Ottoman incursions, giving the film both intimate and epic dimensions.
How long is Master Executioner?
Master Executioner runs for 105 minutes — just under an hour and three-quarters. That runtime gives the story enough room to breathe, tracing the arc of a friendship destroyed by jealousy and betrayal, and following its consequences into the next generation.
What are some films similar to Master Executioner?
If Master Executioner appeals to you, consider exploring Home from Home – Chronicle of a Vision (2013), The Butterfly's Dream (2013), Time and the Wind (2013), Ophelia (2019), or To Walk Invisible (2016). These films share a similar blend of historical setting, personal drama, and richly drawn characters.
Is Master Executioner based on a true story?
Master Executioner is not based on a specific documented true story. It draws on the historical atmosphere of the Danube region during the era of Ottoman raids, weaving a fictional narrative of friendship and betrayal within that authentic historical context, crafted by director and writer Paľo Bielik.
More About Master Executioner
Explore further details about Master Executioner on these trusted resources.