Get ready for a heartfelt, humorous twist this holiday season with "Winter Waltz," the must-watch Christmas film airing on Ersten at 8:15 PM. This tragicomedy, based on the novel "Der Donnerstagsmann" by Edda Leesch, is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
The movie revolves around Ulrich Matthes, one of Germany's biggest stars in theater, film, and television. Matthes plays Albert Gottwald, a former dance star who's lost his way following the death of his wife, Martha. Grief-stricken, Albert leaves grumpy messages on their shared answering machine seeking solace in Martha's voice. After the neighbor's dog devours the robin Albert raised with her, he reaches his breaking point and decides to stage his own suicide during Advent.
Enter the enchanting Hanne Hanken, Albert's daughter, played by the winning Grimme Award recipient, Nina Kunzendorf. Having taken notice of her father's emotional state, Hanne convinces her supervisors to falsely inform Albert that he is needed to teach a dance class due to an injured friend, all while she secretly poses as a dance student to better understand her father's mental state.
As Hanne begins to teach Albert under the guise of a dance student, the two begin to feel a strong connection. The chemistry between Matthes and Kunzendorf is undeniably captivating, leaving viewers yearning for a happier ending to offset the tragic beginning.
Albert's journey to recovery partly stems from his passion for dance. In real life, Matthes shares this same enthusiasm for dance, having briefly pursued a competitive career as a child. Although he never claimed victory, his love and talent for the art form are certain to shine in this heartfelt film.
Our favorite German star believes in holding onto hope, even in the face of adversity. Matthes explains, "I'm 51% optimistic, I believe in success. The movie conveys this 51%," and audiences can't help but agree as they watch the unfolding events. A positive message of hope in the midst of challenging times, Matthes' film is certain to leave you feeling inspired and optimistic, even in the darkest of days.
"Winter Waltz" is an ARD Degeto production, directed by Ingo Rasper, and based on Edda Leesch's novel. So, don't miss this moving, heartfelt traditional Christmas story that is sure to become a staple holiday film for years to come.
Telephone Counseling Services:
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call the confidential telephone counseling service. They provide support 24/7 through the free numbers 0800/111 0111 and 0800/111 0222, or you can contact them via the Internet at
Other fun watching suggestions:
- In addition to starring in "Winter Waltz," Grimme award winner Nina Kunzendorf will appear in the film, enhancing the plot and surprising viewers with her skilled performance.
- Ulrich Matthes, one of Germany's most prominent performers, delivers an outstanding, emotional performance in this emotional, dramatic film.
- Despite the light-hearted approach, ARD films have managed to impress viewers by producing the perfect Christmas film in "Winter Waltz."
- Overwhelmed by grief, Albert Gottwald's character struggles to find meaning in life after the loss of his beloved wife Maria.
- Albert's longing for his deceased wife leads him to leave emotional messages on their shared answering machine, seeking solace in her voice.
- Reaching his breaking point, Albert prepares to take his own life during the heart of the Advent season. But fate intervenes.
- When Hanne Hanken learns of her father's emotional state, she convinces her supervisors to hire her as a dance instructor and inform her father that he must stand in for a friend.
- Taking on her new role as a dance teacher, Hanne becomes Ingottwald's dance partner, forming a deep bond with him and helping him move forward.
- Viewers will find themselves captivated by Matthes and Kunzendorf's undeniable chemistry in this heartfelt film, that will surely become a holiday classic.
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