Glück im Hinterhaus

'Glück im Hinterhaus' (happiness in the backside-house) is a beautifully crafted film by Herrmann Zschoche.

A very credible drama in human relations, about a middle-aged man who cannot choose between his wife and his mistress. All human characters, including those of the children, are performed very well - in particular that of the wife, by Jutta Wachnowiak.

This film's plot always follows a path one can relate to. Thus providing a very human picture, with a clear & common next-door character.

From a wider point of view, 'Glück im Hinterhaus' was shot between 'Sieben Sommersprossen' and 'Und nächstes Jahr am Balaton'. At a time when Herrmann Zschoche was at his peak.

'Sieben Sommersprossen' is Zschoche's best-known film, and 'Und nächstes Jahr am Balaton' is a very nice road-movie. Both films clearly display female nudity.

'Glück im Hinterhaus' is much more modest in this respect, and probably therefore less known. But it stands out between its neighbors for its excellently acted plot.

No pun intended - family life, human relationships ... now I am not sure how that sounds to you. Not to mention that it has a few years ... it was done in the 80s is what I am trying to say. The ageing is one thing, the theme itself may feel timeless ... but you may be thrown off, that's why I thought I'd mention it.

The acting is more than decent and the structure is also really well done. We may not get all or any for that matter resolution ... and there is fourth wall breaking (talking about the end) ... but that works more in favor of the movie ... or the mystery within itself. So hopefully you can suspend your disbelief, because there is a lot to like here.

The template for this movie by the GDR film studios DEFA was provided by the very underestimated author, Günter de Bruyn. There is actually relatively little action and plot in the story of a man who cannot decide between his wife and his lover. Its strength is the detailed description of everyday life in the GDR. Between the lines you can find as much criticism of the conditions in the GDR, as it was possible to show in a film at the time. The shabby building, with its rough and vulgar inhabitants, shouldn't even exist according to official propaganda. In any case, a recommendation.