A modern fairytale about two kids in an elevator that descends into a wasteland where they encounter a blind horse, a knight in dirty underwear, a green-haired…… Read more “Ol’ Witch”
The Break-In
This DEFA/West German coproduction about a daring bank robber was a huge hit on both side of the German border. It’s based on an actual bank robbery…… Read more “The Break-In”
Free Land
The second film from DEFA captures the struggles of farmers and the people fleeing the destruction of the cities who are trying to start collectives in East…… Read more “Free Land”
Radio GDR Podcast on Films
For anyone interested in life in East Germany, there is a podcast called Radio GDR that covers nearly every every aspect of life there, from fashions to…… Read more “Radio GDR Podcast on Films”
Damn It, I’m Grown Up
Growing up is always painful, no matter where you’re from. There’s a point in life when you have to face the music, recognize you’re no longer a…… Read more “Damn It, I’m Grown Up”
Mine-Haha English Translation Now Available!
I’m pleased to announce that my translation of Frank Wedekind’s classic novella, Mine-Haha, or the Corporal Education of Young Girls is now available on Amazon as either…… Read more “Mine-Haha English Translation Now Available!”
Just Married
Director Herrmann Zschoche takes an unromanticized look at young love in this follow up to his highly romantic Seven Freckles. Not all romances have storybook endings…. In…… Read more “Just Married”
Those “Porcupine” Films (Das Stachetier)
Several of DEFA’s most well-known actors and directors got their starts making short films for the Das Stacheltier group. Here’s a look at the group, the films,…… Read more “Those “Porcupine” Films (Das Stachetier)”
Rivals Behind the Wheel
One of the odder entries in the East German film catalog is this film about international motor racing: A fictionalized account of one of Germany’s best and…… Read more “Rivals Behind the Wheel”
Heroin
An East German customs official goes undercover to investigate an international drug trafficking ring operating between Berlin and Budapest. The late sixties saw the trend in international…… Read more “Heroin”
