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ZDF Airs "Sterben für Beginner": A Tragicomedy About Life and Death
Tonight, ZDF is airing "Sterben für Beginner," a poignant tragicomedy that tackles the often-avoided topic of death with a unique blend of humor and heart. This German film, which won the audience award at the Festival of German Film in Ludwigshafen in 2024, follows the journey of Eric, a former music manager who unexpectedly finds himself working as a funeral director. It's a story that explores life's fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment.
The Unexpected Career Change of Eric
The film begins with Eric (played by Edin Hasanovic) quitting his music management job after a disagreement with a colleague. Feeling lost and searching for purpose, he stumbles upon a job advertisement for a funeral home. Despite his lack of experience, he applies, driven by a desire to understand life and death's complexities. His new job at the funeral home, run by the experienced Volker Mutz (Peter Kurth), becomes interwoven with a deeply personal tragedy.
- A Twist of Fate: Eric’s best friend, Alex (Max Hubacher), is diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, leaving him with only weeks to live.
- Dual Narrative: The film expertly weaves Eric's professional challenges at the funeral home with the heartbreaking reality of his friend's illness. This dual narrative allows for a nuanced exploration of grief, acceptance, and the complexities of human relationships during times of loss.
The film deftly balances humor with serious subject matter. Scenes of Eric navigating the bureaucratic side of the funeral business are contrasted with moments of lightheartedness, such as when he humorously lies in a 3,700-Euro coffin during training. This approach adds depth to the storyline, preventing it from becoming overly bleak. While some might criticize the film for oversimplifying the training required to become a licensed funeral director (a point addressed by the film's critics), it presents a more in-depth look at the profession than many previous German television depictions.
Exploring Relationships and Emotions
The characters in "Sterben für Beginner" are well-developed and relatable. Volker Mutz, initially portrayed as rigid and profit-driven, reveals a more empathetic side as he guides Eric. The evolving relationship between Eric and Anita (Luna Jordan), Mutz's niece, adds another layer to the narrative, showcasing the importance of human connection during periods of sorrow. Edin Hasanovic's performance as Eric has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
- Authenticity: Hasanovic's heartfelt portrayal brings Eric's emotional journey to life, making him a truly relatable character.
- Facing Mortality: The film does not shy away from the difficult realities of terminal illness, portraying the emotional turmoil experienced by Alex's family and friends, especially the impact on his pregnant girlfriend, Karla (Svenja Jung).
A Powerful Message
Ultimately, "Sterben für Beginner" is a powerful reminder of life's fragility and the importance of appreciating the time we have with our loved ones. It's a film that encourages viewers to confront their own feelings about mortality and to contemplate life's profound questions. Although it doesn't provide easy answers, the film invites audiences on a shared journey of reflection and discovery—a journey that blends laughter and tears with equal measure.
The film's broadcast on ZDF is significant as it tackles the subject of death with sensitivity and humor. "Sterben für Beginner" is not just about loss; it's also a celebration of life, a compelling reminder to cherish what truly matters. Don't miss it!
