Karlovy Vary: The Power of Water — A film that will make you see the famous spa town in a completely new light

Some places hold their stories so deeply beneath the surface that an ordinary visitor doesn't even notice them. Karlovy Vary is such a place. Tourists come, photograph the colonnades, taste the water from spa cups, and leave feeling that they have come to know the city. But the true story of Karlovy Vary — that of the power that literally created this city — remains hidden from most of them. This is precisely what the documentary film Karlovy Vary: The Power of Water decided to change.

What is the film actually about?

At first glance, it might seem like another tourist film full of shots of colonnades and passing guests. The opposite is true. The film delves deep beneath the surface — literally and figuratively — and tells the story of Karlovy Vary's mineral springs from their geological origin to their place in modern medicine and spa treatment.

Viewers will learn how water travels through the earth's depths for hundreds of years before reaching the surface enriched with dozens of minerals. They will understand why Karlovy Vary's mineral water has such a specific composition and why it cannot be replicated or industrially produced. The film introduces the essence of balneology — the science of the medicinal use of natural resources — in a way that is understandable even to a person without medical education.

However, it is not a dry scientific document. The film connects history, science, the atmosphere of the place, and human stories into one seamless whole. Karlovy Vary is not just a backdrop in it — it is the main character.

How was the film made?

Ondřej Urbanec, a director, cinematographer, editor, and producer with rich experience in the Czech and international audiovisual scene, is behind the camera and the entire project. His clips have appeared on MTV and Óčko TV, and he has participated in projects for HBO Max, Czech Television, and TV Prima. However, he views the film Karlovy Vary: The Power of Water as something personal — as a work that goes far beyond the boundaries of ordinary production.

The film was created as part of the FEEL Karlovy Vary project — a modern cultural-media concept whose goal is not only to showcase Karlovy Vary but to help people truly feel this city. The name of the project comes from the English word feel. And that's exactly what the film does: it doesn't just offer information but conveys an experience.

Karel Vaněk, co-owner of Mana Video and Mana World, also participated in the realization. For him, the topic of Karlovy Vary's springs is close not only professionally but also personally. The entire team shared the conviction that complex topics — such as the origin of mineral springs or the principles of spa treatment — can be explained simply, emotionally, and attractively, if approached with the right sensitivity and craftsmanship.

The result is a film that can connect history, science, emotions, and the atmosphere of a place within a single hour in a way that remains in the viewer's memory long after the screening.

Where and how is the film screened?

The film has a unique technical feature that distinguishes it from the vast majority of documentary works. In the FEEL Karlovy Vary premises on Lázeňská Street, it is screened simultaneously in four language versions thanks to a synchronous audio system. Each viewer can thus enjoy the film in their native language without disturbing others. This solution reflects the international character of Karlovy Vary and its visitors.

The festive premiere took place in the iconic Atrium hall of the Imperial Baths — one of the most beautiful historical buildings in Karlovy Vary. The evening was exceptional not only for the film itself but also for the presence of personalities who participated in the project or work closely with the topic of Karlovy Vary spa treatment — from the medical director of Sanatorium Savoy Westend to the mayor of the city, Andrea Pfeffer Ferklová.

Who is the film intended for?

The answer is simple: for everyone who wants to truly understand Karlovy Vary.

The film is ideal for tourists and visitors who are coming to Karlovy Vary for the first time and want to know what truly lies behind this city. It will also appeal to spa guests who are undergoing treatment and want to better understand what Karlovy Vary water does for their health.

But the film is not just for visitors. It is also intended for the residents of Karlovy Vary themselves — those who walk past the springs every day and may not even realize what an exceptional place they inhabit. The film invites you to look at your own city with new curiosity and emotion.

And finally — the film speaks to everyone interested in nature, history, medicine, or simply good stories. Because the story of Karlovy Vary water is exactly that: a good story that was waiting for the right narrators.

Karlovy Vary: The Power of Water is not just a documentary. It is an invitation — to look at one of the world's most famous spa towns through the eyes of someone discovering it for the first time. And perhaps to find out that you don't even know it properly yet.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Power of Water film

What is the documentary film The Power of Water about?

The film The Power of Water tells the story of water as a natural phenomenon that has influenced people's lives in Karlovy Vary for centuries. It showcases not only the famous spa springs but also the stories of people, traditions, and places inextricably linked with water.

Is the film intended only for visitors to Karlovy Vary?

Not at all. The documentary will captivate anyone fascinated by nature, history, healing springs, or stories of places with a unique character. Karlovy Vary here serves rather as a starting point for a narrative about the power of water and its significance.

Why is Karlovy Vary famous worldwide?

Karlovy Vary is renowned primarily for its mineral springs and spa tradition, which dates back hundreds of years. It is precisely the healing effects of the local waters that attract visitors from all over the world to the city.

What role does water play in the history of Karlovy Vary?

Without water, Karlovy Vary would probably never have come into existence. The mineral springs shaped the city's appearance, its architecture, culture, and spa industry. The documentary shows how crucial water was for the development of the entire region.

Does the film also feature Karlovy Vary thermal salt?

Yes. The documentary also includes topics related to the traditional use of Karlovy Vary's mineral springs and their legacy for the present day. The film also provides information about Karlovy Vary thermal salt LEON.

Where can the film The Power of Water be seen?

Current screening times can be found on the project organizers' websites and in the cinema program. We recommend following updates on social media and the Feel Karlovy Vary website.

Are Karlovy Vary's springs truly unique?

Yes. Karlovy Vary's mineral springs are among the most famous healing springs in Europe. Their composition, temperature, and history make them a unique natural phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Why should even someone who knows Karlovy Vary see the film?

Many people know the colonnades, the Hot Spring, or the spa houses. However, the film offers a different perspective — it shows connections, stories, and details that a casual visitor often overlooks. That's why it can surprise even native Karlovy Vary residents.