The recently released documentary 'Kaprálová,' directed by Petr Záruba, offers a poignant look into the life of Vítězslava Kaprálová, a prodigious Czech composer and conductor who passed away prematurely. The film, which received awards at the Jihlava International Documentary Film Festival last year, showcases personal letters from Kaprálová, deepening the audience's understanding of her aspirations and struggles in a male-dominated music scene. Through a series of photographs from the collection of the Moravian Museum in Brno, viewers get a glimpse into the rich tapestry of her life.

Set against the backdrop of pre-war Europe, the documentary chronicles Kaprálová's journey as a 22-year-old artist who traveled to Paris to study at a prestigious music school, driven by her ambition to excel and be recognized in a field largely dominated by men. One of her letters encapsulates her determination: "I am not satisfied just competing with some fool in Prague; I want to surpass all those three Bs: Bach, Beethoven, Brahms," revealing her deep desire to achieve greatness. The film draws on these rich personal narratives to portray the emotional and intellectual landscape Kaprálová navigated.

Tragically, her promising career was cut short by her untimely death. As French troops faced the looming threat of German forces, Kaprálová grappled with the early signs of an illness, which ultimately took her life on June 16, 1940. The documentary not only honors her artistic legacy but also reflects on the challenges faced by women in music during her time, making it a significant tribute to a remarkable yet underappreciated figure in Czech cultural history.