Fascination Amrum”: War drama shows the longing for peace

Fascination Amrum”: War drama shows the longing for peace

On October 27, 2025, the film “Amrum” will celebrate its premiere in Cologne, an exciting drama directed by the talented director Fatih Akin. The action takes place in the spring of 1945 on the idyllic North Sea island of Amrum, at the time of the Second World War. Here we experience the story of 12-year-old Nanning, who fled Hamburg with his family to escape the horror of war, even if the island's residents have so far been little affected by the warlike unrest. Most people accepted the regime rather than actively supporting it.

Nanning, played by Jasper Billerbeck, helps his mother Tessa - played by the renowned actress Diane Kruger - grow potatoes. Hille, Nanning's mother (Laura Tonke), is a proud National Socialist and is in an inner conflict with her son, who longs for a harmless childhood and the simple desire for a piece of bread with butter and honey. These ingredients are difficult to obtain in the remaining days of the war. The food shortage is becoming noticeable, but the family has enough supplies thanks to their food stamps, even if they are marked as outsiders by the swastika flag in front of their house.

A look back at childhood

The film “Amrum” is based on a novel by Hark Bohm, who processed his childhood memories from the time at the end of the Second World War. Bohm, who was born in Hamburg in 1939 and grew up in Amrum, gives an authentic insight into the conditions at the time with his story. Fatih Akin has used these memories to create a coming-of-age story that impressively captures the perspective of a growing boy in a difficult time.  Mülheim an der Ruhr reports that, in addition to Nanning's personal journey, the conflicts in the shadow of National Socialism are also a central theme.

With spectacular lighting, Akin captures the raw beauty of Amrum and creates a captivating atmosphere. Audience response has already been overwhelming at its premiere in Cannes in May, and the film has already sold 125,000 tickets since its release on October 9, 2025, putting it on a par with the film Tschick.  NDR emphasizes that “Amrum” is more than just a story about the traces of war; It also shows the inner conflict of Nanning, whose parents are loyal to the regime.

An ensemble full of talented actors

In addition to Billerbeck and Kruger, the cast also includes Detlev Buck and, as a special addition, Matthias Schweighöfer in a small role. This star-studded cast contributes significantly to the depth of the narrative. The film offers diverse perspectives on the challenges of growing up in a turbulent time and takes viewers on Nanning's personal hero's journey. The drama is rated for ages 12 and up and will be shown at upcoming film festivals, including the renowned Hamburg Film Festival.

“Amrum” is therefore not only an impressive cinema experience, but also an important contribution to the discussion with young people in the shadow of war.  Movie pilot welcomes this film, which knows how to combine complex topics with emotional weight. So if you are in Cologne, don't miss the opportunity to see this thrilling film!