Do I Have to Kill My Child?
A disturbing drama about a young mother who physically abuses her baby. Feeling overwhelmed and aware that she's not coping after the birth of her third child, she sends desperate cries for help. But her mother, husband, neighbour and clinic sister do not recognise the seriousness of the situation until the baby ends up in hospital with a fractured skull. A heart-wrenching film that illustrates the experiences of many women who suffer from post-natal depression.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary explores the difficult choices faced by women in East Germany who found themselves pregnant and unmarried. It delves into the social pressures, ethical dilemmas, and personal struggles associated with single motherhood and the possibility of abortion in a time when such decisions were heavily scrutinized and often stigmatized.
Critical Reception
As a significant work of East German documentary filmmaking, 'Do I Have to Kill My Child?' was noted for its unflinching portrayal of a sensitive social issue. It sparked considerable debate within the GDR for its direct approach to themes of women's autonomy and societal expectations. While critical reception was internal and politically charged, its lasting impact lies in its historical documentation of private lives confronting public policy.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its courage in tackling a taboo subject in East German society.
- Recognized as an important historical document reflecting women's struggles.
- Felt to be a raw and honest portrayal of difficult personal and societal conflicts.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this historical documentary is not readily available due to its specific release context and geographical distribution.
Fun Fact
Helke Misselwitz, the director, was a prominent figure in East German documentary cinema, and this film is considered one of her most impactful works due to its controversial subject matter at the time.
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