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Film Screening: “A Coffee in Berlin”
September 15 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Free
RSVP in Advance ($5.00 suggested donation)
In conjunction with the German American Cultural Center of Maryland, we will host a screening of the “A Coffee in Berlin” at The Peale. Movie is in German and will be played with English subtitles. Coffee and cake will accompany the movie.
“A Coffee in Berlin,” originally titled Oh Boy, is a 2012 German tragicomedy film directed by Jan-Ole Gerster. The movie presents a day in the life of Niko Fischer, a young man in his twenties who is aimlessly wandering through Berlin after dropping out of law school.
The film’s narrative is a series of loosely connected vignettes that highlight Niko’s encounters with various people and situations as he searches for a simple cup of coffee—a quest that symbolizes his deeper search for meaning and direction in life. Throughout the day, he faces a series of frustrating and awkward events, ranging from dealing with his disappointed father, who has just cut off his financial support, to encountering an old classmate who harbors unresolved feelings towards him.
The movie is shot in black-and-white, adding a sense of timelessness and melancholy to the story, which contrasts with the absurdity and humor found in Niko’s mundane experiences. The film is also known for its jazz soundtrack, which complements the introspective and somewhat melancholic tone of the film.
“A Coffee in Berlin” is a portrayal of urban life and the existential struggles of a young man in a world that seems both full of possibilities and void of clear direction. The film received critical acclaim, particularly for its sharp script, Gerster’s direction, and Tom Schilling’s performance as Niko. It won several awards, including the Best Film award at the German Film Awards.
