Czech Television psychological drama Kamarád claims top prize at Serial Killer festival
The psychological drama Kamarád from Czech Television won the inaugural Czech Killer competition at the ninth annual Serial Killer festival in Brno.
Running from September 23 to 28, 2026, the festival brought 33 series from 15 countries to audiences before their official broadcast premieres.
Inside the anatomy of grooming and authentic case files
Written and directed by Petr Pylypčuk, Kamarád examines the complex web of trust, manipulation, and grooming between a trusted adult and a child.
The five-part miniseries relies on authentic case files and testimonies, though the story is handled anonymously. Matouš Ruml stars as an amicable teacher and hiking club leader who conceals predatory intentions, while Jakub Jenčík plays the young protagonist.
Proposed laws aim to flag teachers who abuse children
The narrative explores how a young person struggles to recognize boundaries and how surrounding adults—including parents, schools, and the justice system—miss warning signs. The story highlights a critical societal issue: teachers convicted of abusing minors can potentially return to classrooms once their criminal records are cleared.
To combat this, the series ties into upcoming legislative changes, such as the proposed “Children’s Certificate” in a drafted amendment to the penal code, designed to flag individuals convicted of offenses that endanger children.
Broadcasting plans and educational rollout for schools
Czech Television plans to broadcast Kamarád in the spring of 2027.
The public broadcaster also prepared educational materials for schools to help teachers discuss relationships, trust, and abuse with students aged 12 and older.
International winners and prison comedy Oddíl B
While the Czech jury honored Kamarád, the top international Primetime Killer award went to the Polish drama Proud, directed by Karol Klementewicz.
Meanwhile, the Oneplay streaming service secured attention with Oddíl B, a prison comedy created by Jan Prušinovský and Petr Kolečko. The series stems from real prison stories shared by actor Zdeněk Godla during lunch breaks on the set of the series Most!.
Oddíl B earned a special mention from the Czech jury for its blend of professional actors like Godla and Zuzana Stivínová with non-professional performers. The ten-part series premieres on Oneplay on October 9, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kamarád
What is the primary plot of the winning series?
The drama follows a young boy who moves after his mother’s death and finds closeness in a teacher who subsequently abuses his trust.
Which actor portrays the teacher in Kamarád?
Matouš Ruml plays the teacher and hiking club leader, while Jakub Jenčík stars as the young protagonist.
What international production won the main festival award?
The Polish drama Proud, directed by Karol Klementewicz, won the main Primetime Killer award at the Brno festival.