Volker Schlöndorff's "Heimsuchung" Brings Jenny Erpenbeck's Novel to the Screen
Volker Schlöndorff's "Heimsuchung," based on Jenny Erpenbeck's 2018 novel, utilizes a house by Märkischer See to delve into a century of German history. The film's first segment chronicles two families during the Weimar Republic, the Third Reich, and wartime, with one family being Jewish. In contrast, the second part portrays another family's struggles in the post-war period, spanning the DDR and Wende. While the initial segment is poignant, the latter's credibility is diminished by its abrupt time shifts. Despite its disjointed storytelling, "Heimsuchung" adeptly intertwines political themes with emotional experiences. The film boasts striking visuals, though it may come off as somewhat kitschy. This review is by Paula Pugnat on kulturnews.de, featuring Michael Maertens and produced by STUDIOCANAL and Ziegler Film.
Key facts
- Volker Schlöndorff directed the film "Heimsuchung."
- The film is based on Jenny Erpenbeck's 2018 bestselling novel "Heimsuchung."
- The narrative spans the Weimar Republic, the Third Reich, the war, the post-war period, the DDR, and the Wende.
- The film's constant setting is a house by the Märkischer See.
- The first part follows two families, one Jewish; the second part follows another family after the war.
- The film is less experimental and less intense than last year's "In die Sonne schauen."
- The second part is criticized for many time jumps and a constructed feel.
- The film is visually appealing but somewhat smooth and kitschy, according to the review.
- The review was written by Paula Pugnat for kulturnews.de.
- Michael Maertens is among the cast.
- The production involves STUDIOCANAL and Ziegler Film.
Entities
Artists
- Volker Schlöndorff
- Jenny Erpenbeck
- Paula Pugnat
- Michael Maertens
- Matthias Jordan
- Rolf Wütherich
- Volker Sievert
- Cat Power
Institutions
- STUDIOCANAL
- Ziegler Film
- kulturnews.de
- Der Freitag
Locations
- Märkischer See
- Germany
- Bad Saarow
- Bad Saarow-Pieskow Süd
- Scharmützelsee