Category Archives: Germany

Should artists stay above politics? “Werk ohne Autor” [2018 Germany]

Though this is not the central theme, Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, in his Oscar-nominated semi-biographical epic “Werk ohne Autor” [Eng. Title: Never Look Away], poses a rarely discussed question; Are artists – as liberators, revolutionaries, and thinkers, letting themselves down … Continue reading

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Grow more pineapple! “Der Geschmack von Leben” [2017 Germany]

No, this is not a new UN directive concerning public nutrition (though it might be a refreshing idea), but it might increase demand for pineapple if Roland Reber and his vlogging protagonist Nikki’s advice to drink more pineapple juice is … Continue reading

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It’s an insane world! “Tag der idioten” [1981, West Germany]

Werner Schroeter’s films are pretty much like the man himself, less talked about but theatrical and larger than life in person. Among his last films acknowledged as part of the Neuer Deutscher Film canon, “Tag der Idioten” [Eng. Title: Day of the … Continue reading

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Rediscovering a sacred bond: “Toni Erdmann” [2016 Germany, Romania]

Maren Ade’s oddball comedy “Toni Erdmann” is a uniquely German attempt at highlighting the need for reinforcing familial bonds even while pursuing hectic lifestyles and careers. The film wryly focuses on a father-daughter relationship weathering changes in their individual circumstances. … Continue reading

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A personal view on those ‘High Times’: “Das wilde leben” [2007 Germany]

It is difficult to know the extent to which director Achim Bornhak had a say in the creative rather than technical aspects of his film biopic – about the model, actress, groupie, and legendary sex-icon of the ‘1968 generation’ Uschi … Continue reading

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