The cinema film “Fish in the Fur” (Artkeim²) premiered at the Kant Kino in Berlin on Thursday, 25 May 2023. An unusual adventure film that begins in the rubble of a burnt-down youth hut in the Harz Mountains and takes the protagonists all the way to South Tyrol in search of a secret cave in the Alps. Dean Benzin, the director of the film, was present in person, along with the ensemble of young actors.
The narrative of the film comes from young people of the Landeskirche Braunschweig, and their influence makes the film exceptionally authentic. It is about their everyday lives, their fantasies, their views on diversity, climate protection and social media – in short, about the world through their eyes.
In “Fish in the Fur“, screenwriter Christian Pasquariello combines their ideas to create the plot. In doing so, he and director Dean Benzin have succeeded in creating a work that challenges the audience both emotionally and intellectually.
“Fish in the Fur” breaks with the conventions of conventional youth film productions. With elements from action and adventure films, combined with the impulsive imagination of young minds and visually impressive scenes in South Tyrol, as well as a frightening brown bear, the film captivates its audience. “Fish in the Skin” is also a project to inspire young people to make films. The multifaceted characters are confronted with their own fears and secrets on their journey of discovery. The film also addresses a range of issues relevant to young people such as inclusion, sexual identity, environmental protection and the influence of social media.
The main roles in this cinematic adventure are played by young, talented amateur actors, including Lene Deike, Falco Heidzig, Phelan Brunk, Leabé, Amalia Teuber and Lukas Bake. Frederick Lau and Dieter Hallervorden also shine in supporting roles. The courageous troupe embarks on an adventurous journey from their hometown in the Harz Mountains to the picturesque mountains of South Tyrol, accompanied by the punky Ninja from Berlin (played by Leonie Fries) and the experienced mountain guide Peter (Emanuel Fellmer).
Summary
It is supposed to be more than just an excursion. Once a year, the village youth group goes away for a few days to experience fellowship and leisure away from home. But this time it is to be more than just fun and recreation. Much more. After a serious fire, the meeting place of six youths, a small hut, is completely destroyed, revealing a casket hidden under the floorboards. The mysterious contents call the group around Lydia to South Tyrol in the mountains. For Theo in his wheelchair, the tour is unthinkable. But he, of all people, is enthusiastic about the idea. He loves the mountains, for him the trip would be a dream. After initial scepticism, Sarah, Johanna, Finn and Luca agree. The journey begins. The destination is a cave near the summit.
Not only the encounter with the transgender punk Ninja causes tensions in the group, but also the hike with the experienced mountain guide Peter brings up fears and self-doubt among the young people. The repercussions tug at the cohesion of the teens among themselves. Can they reach their goal despite the difficulties? And what will await them when they solve the riddle of the mysterious find from the silver capsule?
More information about the movie: Fish in the Fur
More information about the labell: Artkeim²
