Kleiner Junge, großer Freund

In a gritty industrial town, a lonely ten-year-old boy forms an unlikely friendship with an older, brooding debt collector. The boy, longing for a father figure, sees a potential protector in the gruff man, who is struggling with his own demons. Their connection grows amidst the harsh realities of their lives, offering a glimmer of hope and understanding in a bleak environment.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its sensitive portrayal of an unusual friendship and the strong performances from its lead actors. Audiences appreciated its melancholic yet hopeful tone and its authentic depiction of working-class life.

• Praised for its powerful performances, particularly from the young lead and veteran character actor.

• Applauded for its subtle and poignant exploration of loneliness and connection.

• Noted for its atmospheric depiction of a bleak industrial landscape that mirrors the characters' inner lives.

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Nominated for the Golden Bear at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival (2017). Nominated for Best Film and Best Actor (Peter Kurth) at the German Film Awards (2017).

The film was praised for its authentic portrayal of a working-class German setting, with many scenes filmed in and around Dortmund.