Alchemist Academy

What it’s about

Ariana, twelve, has spent her childhood in an orphanage, mocked for abilities she cannot explain. When the alchemist Archivald finds her, he offers a place at a school where children learn to control magical gifts. To enrol, she must pass entrance exams, helped by young alchemists Lora and Mertur. At the school she finds a home and friends, but also uncovers ancient secrets. The witch Murien appears, and Ariana must risk much to learn the truth about her past.

What hooks you

Petr Kubík and Lukáš Pařík, who wrote the screenplay, also direct; Pařík composes the score. Magdaléna Müller leads a cast that includes Roman Zach and Sára Korbelová.

Who it’s for

It is a good pick for those who like family fantasy with a young heroine discovering a hidden magical world, and who enjoy stories where friendship and courage face a dark threat.