by Andreas Dresen
Forty-year-old Frank, married father of two, is diagnosed as having a brain tumour. Together with his wife Simone, he decides not to spend his remaining few months in hospital, but at home with his loved ones where the little joys and cares of his children set the tone. His symptoms soon become increasingly acute, however, and his outside world slowly fades away. Andreas Dresen’s documentary-style drama demonstrates with emphatic persistence how ultimately everybody must die alone. In addition to fear and sorrow, HALT AUF FREIER STRECKE also has room for moments of reconciliation. With its small scenes of everyday life, this film depicts the solidarity and love within a family.