KATKA

“I wanted to be different from the others,” replies Katka when asked why she started taking drugs. Helena Treštíková followed her path for 14 years, beginning in 1996, when the 19-year-old has just been discharged from a therapeutic institution. In love with a new boyfriend, Katka moves with him to Prague, full of optimism and resolutions for a fresh start. But the need to fund their addiction draws the couple into a life of petty crime. A vicious circle of dependency, shoplifting and finally prostitution puts paid to Katka’s repeated efforts to live without drugs. Twelve years on from Katka’s first interview, her life revolves round dingy apartments and detox clinics, dealings with prejudiced officials and the struggle to organize the next shot. When Katka and her new partner Roman discover she is pregnant, they are determined to make things work. For the sake of their forthcoming daughter they endure humiliating visits to doctors and the agony of cold turkey. If Katka wants to keep her baby, she must stay off drugs for good. Treštíková’s documentary shows the life of a young addict struggling between hope and resignation. Thanks to Katka’s impressive ability to reflect upon her situation, an authentic, unsparing picture emerges of a blind spot in a changing society.