Year: 2019
Country: Austria
Director: Johanna Moder
Cast: Julia Jentsch, Manuel Rubey, Aenne Schwarz, Marcel Mohab, Lena Tronina, Tambet Tuisk, Josef Hader
Genre: dramedy
Runtime: 104 min.
Age: 18+
Once Were Rebels depicts two urban, liberal couples in their 30s who decide to help a Russian friend escape to Austria. Pavel, a dissident, is in very real difficulties. Though initially thrilled by this adventure, the Austrians soon find the very foundations of their friendships and relationships are threatened – mainly because this kind of help can be understood in different ways, but also because the man they rescue refuses to behave as the helpers feel he should.
Awards & Festivals:
Zurich Film Festival – Ecumenical Award (Film Award of the Churches of Zurich)
Max Ophüls Award – Best Director
Göteborg Film Festival – participation