The Holeček Case

No one can bring the daughter back to her family, but could meeting the person who killed her help in any way? This fictional five-part story explores how people come to terms with the weight of trauma. It is set at a time when restorative justice programs for victims of serious crimes are beginning to emerge in the Czech Republic.

Its author, writer Bianca Bellová, first became acquainted twenty years ago with Petra Šach, chairwoman of the Institute for Restorative Justice.

Through this connection, Bellová gradually immersed herself in the subject, reading numerous accounts and watching many documentaries.

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Případ Holečkovi  – video

Drawing on this research, she has created an original dramatic series on the topic. Director Johana Ožvold cast experienced radio actors as the family undergoing the complex process of preparing to meet their daughter’s murderer.

The role of the father, however, is played by Pavel Řezníček, appearing behind the microphone in this capacity for the first time. The final production, shaped by sound designer and composer Martin Ožvold, enhances the documentary-like quality of the scenes, giving the bereaved space to speak about the trauma they carry.

The series is further complemented by accompanying interviews with people who approach crime and restorative justice from many different perspectives.

What goes through a person’s mind in prison, and how can they return to life with such a burden? How does a victim feel? And the bereaved? How can any of this be judged? And what might come from looking one another in the eye? Nothing but questions… and one series: The Holeček Case.

We will be presenting the project at Prix Bohemia Radio

When: Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: UP Arts Center, Theater Hall – 3rd floor
Entrance: Free admission with accreditation

Look at the detailed program of the listening session