The Beginner
The Beginner

The Beginner

2018Movie99 minGerman

A coming-of-age tale with a difference about the grumpy doctor Annebarbel Buschhaus donning her ice skates again at the age of 58 after an absence of 40 years. Back on the ice, she tries to revive long suppressed childhood dreams – and makes a new friend, Jolina Kuhn, Berlin’s youth figure skating champion. Through her new friend, Annebarbel begins to open up and break away from her dominant mother.

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Insights

IMDb5.9/10
Google Users75%
Director: Gilles de MaistreGenres: Drama, Family

Plot Summary

The film tells the story of a young girl named Luna who, after her grandmother's death, decides to travel to Africa to fulfill her last wish. She encounters challenges and discovers a new perspective on life and herself along the way. This journey becomes a profound coming-of-age experience.

Critical Reception

"The Beginner" received a mixed reception from critics, with some praising its emotional depth and themes of family and self-discovery, while others found its narrative predictable and pacing uneven. Audiences generally responded more warmly to its heartfelt message and picturesque cinematography.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its emotional resonance and exploration of grief and resilience.
  • Some critics noted a predictable plot trajectory.
  • The film's visual appeal and positive messaging were frequently highlighted.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's touching story about family bonds and personal growth. Many found it to be an uplifting and emotionally satisfying watch, though some suggested it could have benefited from a more original storyline.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in several African countries, providing a visually rich backdrop for Luna's journey.

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