Die Weihnachtsgans Auguste
The opera singer Ludwig Löwenhaupt wants a proper festive roast for Christmas, so he buys a goose in advance to feed the whole family. What he doesn't realize, however, is that the children, Elli, Gerda and Peterle, will grow fond of the animal, which is christened Gustje, and will no longer want to eat it. After the "liberation", the "five kilos of meat", which were initially locked up in the cellar, become a pet that the children take to bed with them and communicate with. But shortly before Christmas, father Löwenhaupt still wants to slaughter them. However, as his family protests and his conscience gets in the way, he can't slaughter the goose after all. So Gustje only has to leave a few feathers as proof that she has been plucked, and the opera singer is given another goose that has already been cut up.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young boy named Paul desperately wants a pet goose for Christmas, but his parents refuse. He finds a goose that has escaped a farm and names her Auguste. Paul tries to keep Auguste a secret, leading to a series of comical situations as he attempts to hide her from his parents and prepare her for Christmas dinner, which is the traditional fate of such a goose.
Critical Reception
This East German animated film is a beloved holiday classic in Germany, appreciated for its heartwarming story, gentle humor, and nostalgic depiction of a traditional Christmas. It's often praised for its animation style and its success in capturing the spirit of the season for a family audience.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its charming and simple storytelling.
- Appreciated for its traditional, festive atmosphere.
- Seen as a gentle and humorous family-friendly holiday tale.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not widely available for this specific release, but it is generally considered a cherished East German children's film, fondly remembered for its holiday themes.
Fun Fact
The film is based on a short story by Jean Craighead George, though the plot was significantly adapted for the German animated version.
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