These screenings are presented at the Digital Gym as part of GERMAN CURRENTS KINO San Diego, and with the support of AMONG FRIENDS – UNTER FREUNDEN, a campaign of the Goethe-Institut USA to celebrate and strengthen transatlantic friendship.

Synopsis: On a night out, Isaac (Giulio Brizzi), a young soldier tries to improve his chances with Illona (Livia Matthes), an attractive older woman, by flirting with her grumpy sister Edith (Ladina von Frisching). But when Isaac playfully pulls Edith off a bench, she slumps limply to the floor. It is only then that he discovers her wheelchair parked near her. Despite his attempts to apologize and atone for the misunderstanding, a fight breaks out between Isaac and his army buddies and the other patrons.

Burdened with shame, Isaac does all he can to correct the sisters’ image of him. As he makes an effort to connect with Edith, and an unexpected friendship develops between the two. His impulsive nature even reawakens the fickle young woman’s courage to face life. But as Edith falls in love with Isaac, who is so desperately searching for a sense of purpose and recognition, misfortune takes its course.

Adapted from Austrian writer Stefan Zweig’s novel of the same name, Cress’ Debut feature is an intimate portrait about the state of restless longing, the loss of one’s own identity, and the fear of never having really had one.

Awards:

Film Festival Max Ophüls Preis 2025 Best Film, Best up and coming actor (Giulio Brizzi and Ladina von Frisching)

Filmkunstfest Mecklenburg-Vorpommern 2025 Best Film, Best up and coming actor (Giulio Brizzi and Ladina von Frisching)

Neisse Film Festival 2025 Best Feature Film, Best Performance (Giulio Brizzi)

Showtimes:
Friday, September 18, 2026: 7:00 PM

Sunday, September 20, 2026: 3:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $5 General Admission

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR3GSuBfCeY

The Digital Gym Cinema is supported by you, the ticket buyer, and funders such as the Prebys Foundation. Thank you!