Die Chinesen kommen
Die Chinesen kommen

Movie spotlight

Die Chinesen kommen

1987
Movie
97 min
German

Delegates and workmen from China appear in a small Bavarian village to dismantle and ship to their country parts of a shut-down industrial plant. Four Bavarian labourers are supposed to assist them in their efforts, and in spite of cultural differences and language barriers this rather unusual encounter of two cultures seems to go pretty well.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Wolfgang BeckerGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A satirical comedy that critiques German society and its perception of foreigners. The film follows a group of ordinary Germans who become increasingly paranoid about the perceived 'invasion' of Chinese immigrants, despite the reality being far less dramatic. It explores themes of xenophobia, media sensationalism, and the absurdity of prejudice.

Critical Reception

The film was met with mixed to positive reviews, praised for its sharp satire and its timely commentary on societal anxieties. While some found its humor to be occasionally heavy-handed, many critics lauded its ability to provoke thought and discussion about xenophobia and cultural misunderstandings in post-reunification Germany. It gained a cult following for its unique blend of dark humor and social critique.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its biting satire and examination of German societal anxieties.

  • Appreciated for its provocative humor and timely commentary on xenophobia.

  • Criticized by some for its occasionally unsubtle comedic approach.

Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not widely documented, but general sentiment points to appreciation for its dark humor and its willingness to tackle uncomfortable social issues head-on. Viewers often highlight its relevance in discussing prejudice and societal fears.

Fun Fact

Wolfgang Becker, the director, would later go on to direct the highly successful German comedy 'Good Bye, Lenin!' in 2003, which also deals with themes of German identity and societal change.

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