Champions (2004): cast, story & where to watch
2004 · Film · ★ 4.5
Released in 2004, Champions is a drama film directed by Marek Najbrt, running about 83 minutes.
What it’s about. Ice hockey is a Czech national obsession, and the country's victory over Russia in the 1969 World Championships, the year following the Soviet invasion, is a celebrated moment in its history. In Marek Najbrt's black comedy, the heroic exploits take place only on a black and white tv screen as a group of representative misfits gather and watch the game in a desolate village on the Czech border. While consisting of recognisable types, Najbrt's bleak portrait reveals a world of alcoholism, debt, racism, bigotry, and infidelity that trails behind the dreams of nationalism and bears little resemblance to the fantasies of the new consumerism. A clever and multi-levelled film, it provides a sharp antidote to the reconciliatory charms of the conventional Czech comedy.
Who’s in it. Champions stars Jan Budař, Klára Melíšková, Will Spoor and Jiří Ornest.
How it landed. With an audience score of 4.5/10, Champions has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Champions page.
If you liked it. Fans of Champions tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Champions (2004)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Champions change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Champions worth watching?
- Champions holds an audience score of 4.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Champions?
- Champions stars Jan Budař, Klára Melíšková, Will Spoor and Jiří Ornest.
- When was Champions released?
- Champions was released in 2004, with a runtime of about 83 minutes.