Set on the Eastern Front during World War I, the story functions as both psychological drama and parable. The former concerns the portrait of Corporal Hoferik, who blindly obeys orders even at the cost of needlessly sacrificing his soldiers’ lives. The latter focuses on the theme of power, the agents of which don’t hesitate to abandon even their most devoted servant in a moment of need. A carefully constructed script, sophisticated dialogue that is cleverly repeated in a variety of significant contexts, and a vivid evocation of ubiquitous ruin – all serve to draw the viewer in. Vlado Müller shines in the starring role, and thanks to careful casting, each and every bit part is memorable. The jury conferred the Special Jury Prize upon Signum Laudis at the 22nd Karlovy Vary IFF in 1980.