Poignant tale of family troubles

The sensitivities of a troubled child and his emotions were portrayed in a befitting manner in the German film, ‘Grave Decisions’, which was screened at the Bangalore International Centre (BIC) recently. Directed by Marcus Hausham Rosenmuller, the film revolves around the life of an eleven-year-old boy.

Sebastian, who lives with his brother and father, lost his mother when he was born. This secret was kept from him for years, but his elder brother brutally discloses it to him over the course of the film. Not only does Sebastian feel guilty, he also wants to make it up to his father. What follows is a series of guilt trips. Sebastian has nightmares in which the last judgment comes upon him and he is sentenced to eternal purgatory. In order to get over this trauma, he tries to make amends for all his sins.

After a series of trials and error, he realises that he is not succeeding in his efforts and in fact, committing more sins in the process. Finally, he arrives at a conclusion and decides that there is only one way to achieve his goal and that is to become a rock star.

However, his father does not allow this and he decides to find a new wife for his father. The film shows the life of a house that is bereft of a womanly touch. Sebastian is handled roughly and his elder brother acts like a typical teenager, who blames his brother for killing his mother. A depressed father and a disturbed family life have been portrayed well by the lead actors of the film.

“Since I am a member of the BIC, I come here for all movie screenings and enjoy the kind of movies they show. This is a sensitive topic and has been dealt with well by the director. I watch a lot of international movies at home and enjoy discussing them as well,” said V Lukose, who had come for the screening.

The film was based in a rural setting and the Bavarian countryside was a treat for the audience. The director had used the rural landscape very well in the movie.

“We are here for the first time for a movie screening. We had expected a good show and it’s a good way to start the weekend. We hope to see many more such good movies here,” said Manjiri, who had come to watch the movie.