Der Versuch zu leben

Johann Feindt once worked as a medical assistant at the Urban Hospital in Berlin-Kreuzberg. He returned there to make his graduation film at the film school. Without commentary, on 16mm, following the principles of direct cinema, the filmmaker observes the medical staff as they deal with open wounds, people fighting for their lives, stubborn patients and psychological borderline situations. Under his gaze, the hospital becomes an overflowing reservoir of human problems. However, instead of losing itself in mere gestures and celebrating those who keep the system alive under extreme (self-)exploitation, as happens again and again in comparable films, the film points to the impending capitulation of a society to its own misery. A disturbing film that makes you hear the phrase ‘Nobody cares’ with completely different ears. (Patrick Holzapfel)

Introduction by Eva Königshofen

Photo: Deutsche Kinemathek