Journey to the Beginning of Time (also known as Journey to the Beginning of Time in the English version) is a Czechoslovakian film directed by Karel Zeman and released in 1955. The movie is a mix of genres, merging elements of natural history and science fiction, fantasy, and adventure.
The story follows the four young boys named Jirka, Tomáš, Petr, and Jenda who embark on an expedition to discover the secrets of Earth's past. Using a small boat, the boys travel back in time through a river cave and find themselves in different geological periods, starting from the Paleozoic era and moving through the Mesozoic era to the Cenozoic era.
As they journey through time, the boys encounter various creatures that have since gone extinct, including giant insects, dinosaurs, and prehistoric mammals. Through the use of innovative techniques such as stop-motion animation, puppetry, and life-size models, the film brings these prehistoric creatures to life in a unique and captivating way.
The movie's attention to scientific detail is impressive, with accuracy in depicting the geological timelines and the creatures that existed in each era. The visuals are stunning, and the story is filled with adventure, excitement, and moments of awe.
Journey to the Beginning of Time is considered a classic of Czechoslovakian cinema, and its influence can be seen in later films such as Jurassic Park. It is a must-see for fans of science fiction, natural history, and adventure.