The Fifth Horseman Is Fear

The Fifth Horseman Is Fear poster

The Fifth Horseman Is Fear is a Czechoslovak film released in 1965, directed by Zbyněk Brynych. This drama film is set during the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia during World War II and explores themes of oppression, the human spirit, and the struggle for survival under an authoritarian regime. The narrative centers around Dr. Braun, a Jewish doctor forbidden from practicing medicine who finds himself embroiled in the resistance movement after he is asked to treat a wounded resistance fighter.

Plot

The film opens in Prague, where Dr. Braun lives a constrained life due to the oppressive policies of the Nazi occupiers. Despite being barred from practicing medicine, he works in a warehouse cataloging confiscated Jewish property. His life takes a dramatic turn when a young man, a member of the Czech resistance, is brought to him with a gunshot wound. Faced with the moral dilemma of adhering to the law or saving a life, Dr. Braun chooses the latter, thus beginning his inadvertent journey into the world of the resistance. The film intricately weaves Dr. Braun's personal struggle with a broader commentary on the nature of fear and courage in the face of tyranny.

Themes

The film delves into several profound themes, most notably the impact of fear on the human psyche and the moral choices individuals must make under oppressive regimes. It also explores the concept of identity, as Dr. Braun's actions challenge the imposed limitations on his life and reassert his sense of self and professional oath. The title itself, The Fifth Horseman Is Fear, is a metaphorical reference to the pervasive atmosphere of fear that acts as an invisible yet powerful force shaping the characters' lives.

Reception

Upon its release, The Fifth Horseman Is Fear was acclaimed for its poignant storytelling, atmospheric cinematography, and the compelling performance of its lead actor. It has since been recognized as a classic of Czechoslovak cinema and a significant work in the canon of films dealing with World War II and the Holocaust. Critics have lauded the film for its artistic direction, the depth of its emotional and philosophical inquiry, and its subtle yet powerful critique of authoritarianism.

Legacy

The film's legacy is marked by its contribution to the cultural memory of World War II and the Holocaust in Czechoslovakia. It remains a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. The Fifth Horseman Is Fear is often cited in discussions of cinema's role in processing and portraying historical trauma. Its influence extends beyond the realm of film, contributing to broader conversations about memory, identity, and resistance in oppressive contexts.