This film sees us follow beekeeper Benedikt. It’s a year marked by the rhythms of labour, destinies and rituals. Benedikt merges into his surroundings: his breathing is in synch with the sheep, his beard has the warmth of wool. And we perceive more than our sight allows us to see: The honey is fragrant, the wooden fence feels heavy to the touch, crickets chirp. Our perception changes.

Katrin Memmer’s debut film doesn’t just ignite the senses, it makes our thoughts burst. It is a film that frees us from circling around ourselves. All those to-do lists that usually consume our perception are let go, letting in a new sensuality.

Are we experiencing an idyll or a barrenness? Isolation or tranquillity? Tradition or an outdated way of life? It could be any of these, due to the openness of the film. It holds itself back, as Benedikt does: we’re not even told that his name is that of the film’s title. We’re not given any clues about nationality, it seems unclear where exactly we are. Our insight into Benedikt’s life is rather an actual experience than an analysis – a freedom we rarely see in German cinema.

Guest: Katrin Memmer

World premiere

This film has been nominated for the Audience Award endowed with 1,000 euro. Please vote after watching the movie.
You can find an overview of all nominated films here.