The sky over Bavaria: The afterlife comedy Branche” inspires!

The sky over Bavaria: The afterlife comedy Branche” inspires!

The new comedy “Branche” by director Julius Grimm will be presented in the heart of Cologne’s film landscape today, October 16, 2025. This humorous and absurd story illuminates the absurdities of life and bureaucracy in the afterlife and has already thrilled audiences with its world premiere at the Munich Film Festival.

“Branch” is the story of Resi and her three friends who die in a car accident in the Bavarian Alps. Instead of the presumed Eldorado, they find themselves in an authority in the afterlife, where their future fate must be decided: Elysium, Purgatory or rebirth. Above all, the central question of what happens to someone who believed in nothing during his lifetime gives the film a special appeal. The concrete implementation of this topic is described as captivating in the Filmstarts review.

An ensemble full of stars

The cast of the film not only promises great entertainment, but also a healthy dose of Bavarian charm. The main actors include Sarah Mahita, David Ali Rashed, Nhung Hong and Beritan Balci. This troupe, known for its enthusiasm, is complemented by prominent support such as Rick Kavanian and Luise Kinseher. The powerful musical accompaniment of Roy Bianco & The Abbrunzati Boys completes the experience and ensures that viewers feel like they are being thoroughly entertained as they navigate this bizarre afterworld with the characters. According to the Süddeutsche Zeitung, the depiction of everyday bureaucratic struggles in an afterlife authority is brought to life in a humorous way.

Interestingly, the film is not only about the terrible situation after an accident, but also deals with missed opportunities and the pressure that social expectations can exert. The characters must deal with the bureaucracy of the afterlife by confronting their personal questions of faith. It is important to find out what they believed in during their lifetime before the clerks, with their limited time resources, decide what will become of them. An absurd but humorous approach that gives the viewer an unexpected smile moment.

A look at the reviews

While “Branche” has already been awarded the Audience Award by the Süddeutsche Zeitung and Bayerischer Rundfunk, the reviews from Filmstarts and Süddeutsche newspaper was equally enthusiastic. The film offers an innovative perspective on existential issues, enriched with a pinch of humor and Bavarian calm. Julius Grimm's debut is viewed as promising and entertaining, despite minor weaknesses in the middle section.

After its nationwide theatrical release on October 9, 2025, “Branche” is definitely a film that shouldn’t be missed, especially for anyone who enjoys hearty comedies with a special twist. Director Julius Grimm is currently traveling to present his film across Bavaria, bringing a touch of Bavarian culture to cinemas. A film that can be enjoyed with a smile and a little thoughtfulness.