In the wake of war, a German boy finds a way forward in the arresting ‘Amrum’

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Powerful coming-of-age stories aren’t just about new beginnings; they also acknowledge what’s being left behind, often with a bittersweet sense of loss. This is beautifully captured in the song “Amrum,” which recalls a moment in 1945 on a German island when the end of World War II dramatically changes the life of a twelve-year-old boy.

I was so fascinated to learn about the story behind this film! It’s credited as “A Hark Bohm film by Fatih Akin,” and it turns out Bohm, a truly brilliant writer, actor, and film scholar who sadly passed away recently, originally intended to direct it himself. He was a key figure in the New German Cinema movement. But realizing he couldn’t, he chose Fatih Akin – the director behind powerful films like “Head-On” and “In the Fade” – to bring his deeply personal story to life. Akin has said taking on the project felt like adopting a child, which I think is such a beautiful way to describe the responsibility and care he put into it.

The film centers around Nanning, a young, observant boy—played with charm by newcomer Jasper Billerbeck—who represents the director himself. He works on a local farm owned by Tessa (Diane Kruger, in a brief but important part). Nanning lives with his pregnant mother, Hille, his aunt Ena, and two younger siblings. They’ve moved from war-torn Hamburg to an old family home in a small coastal town, but without their father—a high-ranking Nazi officer. Though some neighbors are kind, Nanning is often seen as an outsider—labeled a ‘mainlander’ and viewed with distrust because of his family’s Nazi connections. His mother, deeply influenced by Nazi ideology, insists that their family history and ‘bloodline’ make them true locals.

The boy first learns how quickly things can change when he cheerfully tells his mother at dinner that he thinks the war will end soon, hoping it means his father will return. But his mother responds as if he’s betrayed her, acting as though he wants the war to be lost. When Hitler dies, she falls into a deep sadness, only wanting to eat white bread, butter, and honey – all of which are hard to find. Determined to help, the boy makes it his mission to find these ingredients, feeling as though everything depends on it.

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“Amrum” is a beautifully simple story, almost like a fable, set against the harsh backdrop of wartime survival when everyone is exhausted and on edge. The film reveals difficult truths to young Nanning about his family, and portrays his coming-of-age with understated grace, thanks to stunning cinematography that captures the vast, weather-beaten landscapes of the island. Unlike many stories about childhood during war, it avoids being overly sentimental. The film feels inspired by classic, realistic filmmaking movements from Italy, France, and Iran – reminiscent of films like “Bicycle Thieves” and “The 400 Blows” – focusing on small, realistic details instead of relying on clichés or exaggerated emotions.

The thoughtful and understated performance, particularly by star Billerbeck and the strong supporting cast, reveals Nanning’s increasing empathy and understanding. It shows a growing ability to recognize what truly matters, to acknowledge injustice, and to still find beauty and kindness in the world – and within oneself.

Towards the film’s conclusion, a quiet scene unfolds in “Amrum”: Nanning is included in a small, celebratory gathering of islanders marking the war’s end. He remains somewhat distant, seemingly unable to fully embrace their joy while still burdened by his family’s struggles. Yet, you can sense his longing to join in their happiness. This moment, for anyone hoping for an end to difficult times, feels like a fragile, emerging hope.

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2026-04-25 02:01