Die Lange Strasse
1949. Grafenberg in Brandenburg shortly before the foundation of the GDR. Here lives Michel Hollmann and works in roadmaking. His purpose in life are his wife Lotte and the two children Gerda and Heinz, for whom he is reconstructing a summerhouse into a “nest”. In Grafenberg, his siblings are living as well: His brother Karl, the mayor, and sister-in-law Edith, who works in a textile factory, with their son Jürgen. Edeltraut, his sister, has married the lamp fabricant Berthold Bennert and leads a well-off life. They as well have a son: Harald. Part of the family are further sister Hanna and brother-in-law Hermann, who is a fisherman on one of the local lakes and conducts a tenacious private war against old Stegewald and his presumptive prince-electoral rights. They are living their lives with their large and small conflicts, with different intentions, and yet remain connected always.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in the gritty urban landscape of West Berlin, the film follows the struggles of various characters navigating poverty, unemployment, and the harsh realities of daily life. It offers a stark portrayal of marginalized individuals trying to survive amidst societal neglect and personal despair. The narrative weaves together their interconnected stories, highlighting themes of alienation and the search for meaning in a bleak environment.
Critical Reception
Die Lange Strasse received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its raw and unflinching depiction of working-class life in contemporary Berlin. Some lauded its authenticity and strong performances, particularly from its lead actors, while others found its bleakness overwhelming or its narrative somewhat diffuse. It is generally regarded as a significant, albeit somber, example of German cinema from the late 1970s.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its realistic portrayal of urban poverty and social issues.
- Noted for strong, authentic performances that capture the struggles of its characters.
- Some critics found the film's bleakness and lack of a clear resolution to be challenging.
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Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in various districts of West Berlin, contributing to its authentic and gritty atmosphere.
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