The film directed by Genevieve Anderson uses a combination of rod-puppets, practical sets, image compositing, computer-generated effects, and classic cell animation. A 17-minute sample has been available since 2007 and was awarded a 2009 UNIMA-USA Citation of Excellence in the Art of Puppetry. The filmmakers are now looking to develop this short sample into a feature-length film with the help of a Kickstarter campaign launched on Tuesday.

Hrabal’s novella has been translated into 37 languages and has sold over 70,000 copies worldwide in the English translation alone.

More information on the film and how to contribute can be found on the official website.