When exploring a new country, one of the best ways to understand its soul is through its art. In Slovakia, films and literature are more than just entertainment — they reflect the nation’s history, struggles, humor, and creativity. From moving stories about life under communism to playful folk tales, Slovak culture is deeply embedded in its cinematic and literary works.

In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of Slovak films and literature, explore key names to know, and share recommendations you can enjoy even if you’re new to the Slovak language.

Why Slovak Films and Literature Matter

Slovakia is a small country, yet its cultural output is rich and meaningful. Its cinema and writing often deal with themes of identity, survival, resilience, and folklore. Many works capture the experience of ordinary people caught between powerful historical events — from Austro-Hungarian rule to the communist era, and then the country’s transition to democracy.

For a foreigner, exploring Slovak art is also a way to connect with locals. Conversations about books, films, or cultural figures often open doors and make you feel part of the community.

Slovak Cinema: From Classics to Contemporary

Slovak cinema may not be as internationally famous as French or Italian film, but it has produced several world-class movies that earned critical acclaim.

The Golden Age of Slovak Film

One of the most significant Slovak films is “

” (Obchod na korze, 1965), directed by Ján Kadár and Elmar Klos. This moving story about a man appointed to take over a Jewish shop during World War II won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It remains one of Slovakia’s cultural treasures.

Other important films from the 1960s include works by Štefan Uher, such as “The Sun in a Net” (Slnko v sieti), often considered the start of the Czechoslovak New Wave. This film broke taboos with its realistic portrayal of youth and relationships.

Modern Slovak Films

In recent decades, Slovak cinema has been making a comeback. Directors are exploring both local themes and universal stories.

• “Eva Nová” (2015), directed by Marko Škop, tells the story of an aging actress struggling with personal demons.
• “Let There Be Light” (Nech je svetlo, 2019) by Marko Škop explores the rise of extremism in rural Slovakia.
• “Servants” (Služobníci, 2020) by Ivan Ostrochovský depicts life in a seminary during communism.

These films might not always be easy to find, but they frequently appear in European film festivals and sometimes on international streaming platforms.

Slovak Literature: From Folk Tales to Modern Novels

Slovakia has a long tradition of storytelling, from folk tales passed down through generations to modern novels exploring society and politics.

Folk Heritage

Children in Slovakia grow up with the classic tales collected by Pavol Dobšinský, often called the Slovak equivalent of the Brothers Grimm. His book “Slovenské rozprávky” (Slovak Folk Tales) includes magical stories about brave shepherds, dragons, and enchanted kingdoms.

Classic Slovak Writers

• Ľudovít Štúr – Not just a writer, but also a national hero who codified the Slovak language in the 19th century.
• Martin Kukučín – Known for realistic stories about rural life, often comparing tradition with modernization.
• Milo Urban – His novel “The Living Whip” (Živý bič) reflects the hardships of Slovak villages during World War I.

Modern Slovak Authors

Contemporary Slovak writers are gaining international attention:

• Pavol Rankov – His novel “It Happened on the First of September (Or Some Other Time)” won the European Book Prize.
• Balla – A master of minimalist, existential short stories, sometimes called “the Slovak Kafka.”
• Monika Kompaníková – Her book “The Fifth Boat” (Piata loď), about two children navigating abandonment, won awards and was adapted into a film.

Recommendations: Where to Start

If you’re new to Slovak culture, here are some beginner-friendly recommendations:

• Films:
  • The Shop on Main Street – A must-watch for its emotional depth and historical importance.
  • The Sun in a Net – A groundbreaking classic of Slovak cinema.
  • Let There Be Light – A recent film with powerful social themes.
• Literature:
  • Slovak Folk Tales by Pavol Dobšinský – For a taste of traditional stories.
  • The Living Whip by Milo Urban – A moving classic about village life during war.
  • The Fifth Boat by Monika Kompaníková – A contemporary novel with international appeal.

Fun Facts About Slovak Films and Literature

• The Czechoslovak New Wave of the 1960s had strong Slovak voices, but after 1968 many directors faced censorship.
• Slovak literature often blends realism with folklore, making it feel both grounded and magical.
• Several Slovak books and films explore the theme of “small people in big history”, reflecting how ordinary lives were shaped by empires, wars, and politics.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Slovak films and literature is like opening a window into the nation’s heart. The movies reveal struggles, resilience, and creativity, while the books connect you to folklore, identity, and history.

Whether you’re watching The Shop on Main Street, reading Pavol Rankov, or enjoying a collection of fairy tales, you’re not just experiencing art — you’re stepping into the Slovak story.