Tremendous, although the final part was a bit overwrought.

A fantastic, surprisingly overlooked film. A perfect blend of light humour and tragedy, a very solid script, compromising performances, eery photography and a score from hell. Simply everything that this film should be; Brtko's struggles to do the right thing under the rule of those who simply would not allow it, and feels trapped and desolate - it forces you to ask yourself what would you do in his place. Heartbreaking and thought-provoking, a unique, haunting piece of film.

I had been wanting to see this for a long time, thanks to the very high PSI, and it more than delivered. A Foreign Picture Oscar-winner and a truly awesome film that everybody should see. With very well-judged performances by the two leads and wonderful direction, this is probably the best film I've discovered in years. Seek it out immediately!

Good movie with great acting. I'm however more a fan of Closely Watched Trains Czechoslovakia's second foreign language movie win two years later.

That scene where the old lady Lautmann brings breakfast to Tono, while chaos is breaking loose out on the streets, is one of the most frightening moments I've ever seen on film.

The way the film balances dark humour with a grim reality is top notch. You can see the moral dilemmas slowly building and the film's construction really draws you in and makes you wonder what you'd do in such a situation.

A tale that brilliantly switches gears between drama and dark comedy effortlessly. An excellent illustration of how power will corrupt a person and the emotional toll it can have. Haunting film that will stick with you for years.

Had me squirming for an hour straight, and crying for an hour after. Powerful film that everyone should see.

The choice of ending seemed a bit strange to me, not in a bad way, but I'm not sure it was ideal. Other than that this movie is near-perfect in every way, from soundtrack to minor acting parts and it is one of the most deserving Oscar-winners ever.

I can't think of anyone I wouldn't unreservedly recommend this to. It's fucking incredible. Pitch perfect, but with loads of character. Juxtaposed symbolism pervades the film, and time, and the acknowledgment, shame, and remorse. Go watch.

A film of unforeseen innocence and exuberant characterization that becomes darker as it progresses. "The Shop on Main Street" doesn't intrude nor does it feed you bull, but rather leaves you questioning the morality behind it all. Just when I thought I'd seen every great war film, this comes along.

Explores the crisis of conscience that afflicts a well-meaning, hen-pecked man in 1941 Czechoslovakia, tasked with being the "Aryan manager" of a small Jewish-owned button shop. Tragic and comic (but mostly tragic) with excellent performances by the two leads. Occasionally drags its heels, but otherwise a fine and thought-provoking work that makes you ask yourself "what would I do?".