Germany 2026
Opening January 29, 2026

Directed by: Simon Verhoeven
Writing credits: Lars Hubrich, Joachim Meyerhoff, Simon Verhoeven
Principal actors: Bruno Alexander, Senta Berger, Michael Wittenborn, Karoline Herfurth

Joachim (Bruno Alexander) wants to become an actor and applies to the Otto Falckenberg School, one of the most prestigious acting schools in Germany. He struggles through the entrance exam and, against all odds, is accepted. The comedy follows him during his three years at the school, where he appears to show little talent for the profession. He is confronted with a world of theater characterized by passion, competition, and self-expression, which often produces bizarre scenes. In the stately villa of his grandparents, with whom the student lives, he experiences an eccentric everyday life full of crazy rituals, marked by the alcohol-soaked habits of his grandmother (Senta Berger), a former film diva, and his grandfather (Michael Wittenborn), Professor Emeritus of Philosophy. Between stage rehearsals and the peculiarities of family life, Joachim is caught up in a whirlwind of self-doubt, bizarre encounters, and inspiring moments.

This highly entertaining film is based on a book by the widely acclaimed actor Joachim Meyerhoff, who has described his life story in numerous bestsellers. The film adaptation also impresses with the carefree performance of lead actor Bruno Alexander, who never attended acting school himself, and the brilliant performances of Senta Berger and Michael Wittenborn. Director Simon Verhoeven, son of Senta Berger, attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute himself and then studied directing at the Tisch School of Arts in New York. He has created a great film with dialogues that are as funny as they are clever, promising an enjoyable evening full of offbeat humor. (Regine S.)