Germany 2025
Opening September 4, 2025

Directed by: Mia Maariel Meyer
Writing credits: Elena Hell, Caroline Wahl
Principal actors: Luna Wedler, Zoë Baier, Jannis Niewöhner, Laura Tonke, Zoe Fürmann

Tilda (Luna Wedler) studies math and works part-time as a cashier in a grocery store. She is responsible for her ten-year-old sister Ida (Zoë Baier), as well as for her mother who is an alcoholic and incapable of accomplishments. These jobs prevent her from accepting a better position in Berlin, which her teacher sees as a great opportunity, since she is an “exceptional talent.” She has friends: boys (including Viktor, played by Jannis Niewöhner) and girls, Anna (Hannah-Chioma Ekezie) and Marlena (Zoe Fürmann). Her younger sister seems to have no friends until there is suddenly Mara on the scene. 

The title translates to “22 Laps,” in this case, in a swimming pool—a scene which opens the film. Naturally, the 22 laps also represent phases in Tilda’s life. We come back to the swimming pool after forty minutes and later, eighty minutes into the plot. Otherwise, it’s all about Tilda’s responsibilities and hopes for a better life. The storyline is familiar, nothing new. It’s the excellent actors who enthuse us to watch the film. Based on the book of the same title by Caroline Wahl.  (Becky T.)