The Fabulous word of Jules Verne

For this new adaptation of a little-known novel by Jules Verne, Karel Zeman wanted the 125 000 frames in the film to mirror the engravings of Benett and Riou in the original editions, which determined the aesthetic of the film, an aesthetic that Zeman used again in several other films, including Bláznova kronika (The Jester's Tale) (1964), Ukradená vzducholod (The Stolen Airship) (1967) and Na komete (On the Comet) (1970). The actors move through flat sets with black cross-hatching on a white background, using ink blots or light for depth. Zeman also made costumes with "graphic stripes", and "engraved" props with a black and white brush. For each shot he combined the techniques of live action, animated and puppetry. Once again this film is reminiscent of Méliès with its clear tone and above all the humour and poetry which exude from its many inventions. Vynález zkázy (The Fabulous World of Jules Verne) is one of the most beautiful evocations of the imaginary worlds of the father of science fiction.