War and Childhood: Amrum shows Nanning's bittersweet hero's journey

War and Childhood: Amrum shows Nanning's bittersweet hero's journey

The new film “Amrum” by the renowned director Fatih Akin, which was released in cinemas on October 9, 2025, takes viewers to the idyllic North Sea island of Amrum, at the fragile time of spring 1945, when the Second World War was approaching its dark end. The story, based on the autobiographical novel by Hark Bohm, not only promises exciting entertainment, but also offers a deep insight into the personal heroic journey of a young boy in the midst of war. Bohm himself grew up on the island and incorporates memories from his childhood into the story, which is shaped by the conflicts that National Socialism triggered in the pupils and their families.

The story focuses on 12-year-old Nanning, played by Jasper Billerbeck. Nanning flees Hamburg with his mother Hille (Laura Tonke) and his siblings because his father is a high-ranking member of the Nazi regime. Despite some privileges, the family faces the challenges of war - food shortages increase the longing for normality and simple things like fresh bread and butter with honey. Mülheim-Ruhr portrays the haunting image of Nanning, who sees himself torn between loyalty to his mother and antipathy towards the regime to which his family is loyal.

The conflicts of childhood

Nanning is not your typical war boy. Most of Amrum's residents accepted the regime rather than actively supporting it, which exacerbated Nanning's internal conflicts. His desire to be a “normal” child is complicated by the ever-present darkness of war and his family’s political beliefs. Viewers experience how Nanning tries to find his own path while at the same time trying to come to terms with the contradictions in his parents' lives - an exciting transformation that is masterfully implemented in the film. NDR emphasizes that “Amrum” functions both as a coming-of-age story and as a social commentary in its narrative style.

Billerbeck is supported by an experienced ensemble, including Diane Kruger and Detlev Buck. A small but important appearance by Matthias Schweighöfer makes the audience sit up and take notice. Akin succeeds in conjuring up the raw beauty of the island of Amrum onto the screen with spectacular lighting atmospheres and immersing the viewer in the atmosphere of this eventful era.

A look at the cinema releases

After its premiere in May 2025 in Cannes, “Amrum” was awaited with great interest and has already sold 125,000 tickets, which puts the film on a par with the popular “Tschick”. The film, which has a running time of 100 minutes and is suitable for ages 12 and up, has what it takes to reach the hearts of viewers with its emotional weight and historical context. Moviepilot underlines how important the film is for understanding the war past and shows both younger and older generations what it means to have to grow up in such difficult times.

Given the moving subject matter and the strong acting performances, “Amrum” is a film that should not be missed. The lack of normal childhood experiences and the longing for carefreeness during the war are still remembered today - an important reminiscence of the past. Next October 20, 2025, the film will be available for further screenings at various locations, so until then: go ahead and experience a piece of history!