Toni Erdmann by Maren Ade

German Kino at Suchitra Film Society brings to you Toni Erdmann, directed by Maren Ade.
Entry free!

This German-Austrian comedy-drama film revolves around Winfried Conradi, a retired music teacher, who lives alone with his dog, while his daughter Ines pursues her career as a management consultant abroad.

Despite all his activities, Winfried suffers from loneliness. When Winfried's dog dies, he travels spontaneously to Bucharest to see Ines. Her father’s arrival, however, does little to please her: he immediately interferes in her life and work, embarrasses her with ridiculous disguises, and, if necessary, acts as a rude impostor. The moving aspect of this quirky father-daughter tragicomedy? Both parties’ behaviour remains transparent at all times. The reconciliatory aspect? The conflict brings the two together.

The film is a thorny tale of a father and daughter from two different socio-political and emotional generations trying to reconnect. Described as a Dadaesque film, Winfried’s persona often leads to uncomfortable and awkward situations that sets the absurdist tone of the film and forces one to question the perplexing condition of humanity in the 21st century. In addition, the film also explores themes of professional dissatisfaction, the absurdity of corporate culture, familial relationships, personal fulfilment, and the search for authenticity in a hyper-capitalist world.

Toni Erdmann
by Maren Ade
2016 | col.| 162 min. | German with English subtitles

Maren Ade is a German filmmaker known for her work as a writer, director, and producer. Ade's work is characterised by its keen observations of human relationships, nuanced characterisations, and a blend of humour and pathos. She is considered one of the leading voices in contemporary German cinema, recognised for her ability to craft emotionally compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.