Katrin and Dieter really want a new car, but don't have enough money. They therefore decide to host Aunt Mathilde's 60th birthday party and invite all their relatives, including those they haven't been in contact with for years. Because some of them are said to be swimming in money. So Katrin and Dieter hope for some support, but some of it turns out to be just a sham.
Acting
Agnes Kraus anchors the chaos with heartbreaking dignity.
Writing
Wickedly precise observational humor about family greed.
Director
Wolf-Dieter Panse
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
DEFA comedies like this subtly critiqued socialist consumer shortages by making characters obsess over Western goods like cars.
Agnes Kraus was East Germany's most beloved character actress; this rare lead role let her break from her usual working-class matriarch type.
XG
