Marek Eben, a name synonymous with charm and charisma in the Czech Republic, has been a familiar face on television screens and festival stages for decades. Known for his roles as a TV presenter and actor, Eben has become an integral part of the Karlovy Vary International film festival (KVIFF) a celebration of cinema that has been captivating audiences since its inception.
This year, as the festival marks its 60th anniversary edition in its 80th year Eben continues to be a central figure, hosting the much-anticipated opening and closing ceremonies. His journey with KVIFF is a testament to his enduring connection with the world of film and entertainment.
From Gregory Peck to Modern-Day Stars: Eben’s KVIFF Journey
Eben’s association with KVIFF began many years ago, with this year marking his 30th run at the festival. His introduction to the festival came through the late legendary Czech actor and long-time festival president, Jiří Bartoška who passed away last May. Bartoška, a friend and colleague, invited Eben to join the festival, an offer he eagerly accepted.
The festival, held in the picturesque Czech spa town of Karlovy Vary, has evolved significantly since Eben’s early days. He recalls the excitement of interviewing Hollywood heavyweights like Gregory Peck in his first year, a dream come true for any aspiring interviewer. The festival’s transformation from a platform for Eastern Bloc stars to a global cinematic stage has been a journey Eben has cherished.
The Art of Polite Interviewing: Eben’s Unique Style
Eben’s reputation as the Czech Mr. Nice stems from his polite and respectful interview style. Unlike aggressive interviewers, Eben believes in treating his guests as honored visitors. He finds it repulsive to make interviewees uncomfortable, preferring to create a welcoming atmosphere. This approach has endeared him to many international stars who have graced the festival and his talk show, Na plovárně (At the Swimming Pool).
His philosophy is simple: an interviewee is a guest, and one should not probe into personal matters that are not relevant to the discussion. This approach has made him a favorite among celebrities, who appreciate his respectful and considerate manner.
Balancing KVIFF and StarDance: Eben’s Dual Roles
In addition to his work at KVIFF, Eben is also the host of the Czech version of Dancing With the Stars known locally as StarDance. He admits that hosting StarDance is more stressful than his role at the festival. The show’s immense popularity and high ratings add pressure, a challenge he has faced for the past 20 years.
KVIFF, on the other hand, brings its own set of challenges. With a live audience of about 1,500 people including fellow colleagues and acquaintances, the pressure is palpable. The presence of international stars like Michael DouglasJohnny Depp and Michael Caine adds to the intensity, making it a thrilling yet demanding experience.
Dream Guests and Musical Endeavors
Eben has had the privilege of interviewing numerous notable personalities on his talk show. However, he still dreams of hosting Bob Dylan and Woody Allen two enigmatic figures he admires. He humorously notes that the worst thing that can happen is for one’s dreams to come true, hinting at the complexity of interviewing such iconic personalities.
Beyond his television and festival work, Eben is also a musician. He plays in a band called The Eben Brothers a family affair that includes his two brothers. The band has released six albums and won five Anděl Awards the Czech equivalent of the Grammys. Eben writes all the music and lyrics, and while he sings and plays guitar and piano, he relies on other talented musicians in the band for their expertise.
A Brief Acting Career
Eben’s acting career began with a children’s TV series where he played a fat, clumsy kid. Although the role was not glamorous, it became iconic, with his entire generation growing up watching it. He has also acted in a detective movie, playing a nameless character in a single scene. His acting career, while not extensive, has added to his diverse portfolio.
As the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival continues to celebrate its rich history, Marek Eben remains a beloved figure, embodying the spirit of the festival and the charm of Czech entertainment.
