Luisa
KinoFest 2026
Director: Julia Roesler
Writer: Silke Merzhäuser, Julia Roesler
Age Rating: T16
Language: In German with English and Vietnamese subtitles
Vibrant and outgoing, Luisa embraces her newfound independence in an assisted-living facility for adults with disabilities, enjoying parties, flirting, and social freedom. When she gradually withdraws into silence, the staff discovers that she is pregnant. Because her boyfriend is known to be infertile, suspicions of sexual abuse quickly emerge—yet Luisa refuses to speak and chooses to terminate the pregnancy. The ensuing police investigation deeply fractures relationships between residents and staff. A nuanced and deeply empathetic drama examining institutional control, vulnerability, and bodily autonomy.
Awards / Trivia / Notes
- Hof International Film Festival: New German Cinema Award (Director: Julia Roesler) & Best Production Design
- Braunschweig International Film Festival: HEIMSPIEL Award & TILDA Award for Best Female Director
- Shanghai International Film Festival: Nominated for Golden Goblet (Best Film)
- Bremen Film Festival 2026: Best Film (Diversity Category)