Movie spotlight
Totstellen
The story of a young man from Burgenland named Franz who works for an expanding construction company. The boss urgently needs workers and tries to tie Franz to his company by offering him a promotion to foreman. Franz is undecided. After some hesitation, however, he accepts an offer from a large construction company. Franz wants to start a family with his pregnant girlfriend Erna and build a house. She faints in an accident and Franz goes to find a doctor. The doctor is with the builder, who stands in the way of the desperate young man. Franz pushes the builder aside and injures his arm in the process. Franz is then reported to the police and brought to court. He gets caught up in the wheels of justice and ends up in prison. There, all he can do is remain silent. Based on the book and screenplay by Michael Scharang
Insights
Plot Summary
In this crime drama, a young man named Thomas is drawn into the criminal underworld of Hamburg after a chance encounter. He becomes involved with a group of petty criminals and soon finds himself entangled in more dangerous activities. As the stakes rise, Thomas must confront his choices and the consequences of his newfound life.
Critical Reception
While "Totstellen" received some attention upon its release for its gritty portrayal of urban crime, it was not a major critical success. It is often viewed as a product of its time, reflecting a certain aesthetic and thematic trend in German cinema of the mid-1970s, particularly within the crime genre. Its reception was mixed, with some appreciating its realism and others finding it somewhat uninspired.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its atmospheric depiction of Hamburg's underbelly.
Criticized for a somewhat predictable plot progression.
Noted for its performances, particularly from the younger cast members.
Google audience: Audience reviews for "Totstellen" are scarce due to its niche status. Those available often mention the film's authentic portrayal of the era and its gritty, unvarnished look at criminal life, though some found the narrative to be less engaging than other contemporary crime films.
Fun Fact
The film was part of a wave of German crime films in the 1970s, often referred to as "Krimis," which were inspired by both classic Hollywood noir and contemporary social issues.
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