Daisies

| 1966

Directed by: Vera Chytilová

Main Plot

Daisies follows two young women, Marie I and Marie II, who embrace a life of rebellion and hedonism in a society they perceive as corrupt and stagnant. The story begins with the Maries deciding to live life to the fullest, rejecting societal norms and expectations. They embark on a series of whimsical and chaotic adventures, engaging in pranks, indulging in excess, and challenging traditional values. Their escapades take them through various surreal and visually striking scenarios, often highlighting the absurdity of their actions and the world around them. As they navigate their carefree existence, the film explores themes of femininity, consumerism, and the search for identity in a post-war society. The Maries' journey is marked by a playful yet critical examination of the constraints imposed by society, ultimately leading to a reflection on the nature of freedom and rebellion.

Characters

  • Ivana Karbanová plays Marie II, one of two rebellious young women who engage in a series of anarchic pranks, challenging societal norms and indulging in hedonistic escapades.
  • Jitka Cerhová plays Marie II, one of two rebellious young women who engage in anarchic, surreal pranks, challenging societal norms and exploring themes of consumerism and decadence.
  • Marie Cesková is one of the two main protagonists, engaging in anarchic, surreal pranks to challenge societal norms and conventions.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Daisies, the two protagonists, Marie I and Marie II, reach a climax in their rebellious journey against societal norms and expectations. After indulging in a series of extravagant and chaotic escapades, the Maries find themselves at a banquet where they continue their subversive antics. Their actions escalate as they disrupt the event, symbolizing a rejection of the oppressive structures around them. As the banquet descends into chaos, the Maries engage in a surreal and playful destruction of the food, representing their disdain for materialism and conformity. This act of defiance culminates in a moment of self-awareness, as they confront the emptiness of their hedonistic pursuits. The film concludes with the Maries seemingly trapped in a cycle of destruction and rebirth, as they dissolve into a series of abstract images, suggesting the futility of their rebellion against a world that remains unchanged. Ultimately, the ending of Daisies encapsulates the film's themes of anarchic freedom and the critique of societal values, leaving viewers with a sense of ambiguity regarding the impact of the Maries' actions and the nature of their existence. The film closes on a note of unresolved tension, reflecting the ongoing struggle against conformity.

Vera Chytilová Comedy Ivana Karbanová Jitka Cerhová Marie Cesková