Kruste

"Crust" is a short film that tackles themes of growing up and the desire to belong with originality, exploring the tension between tradition and personal identity. Jens Kevin Georg uses a unique premise-the celebration of a person's first wound or scar as a rite of passage-to craft a powerful metaphor about the social and familial pressures people face when trying to fit in. The story, centered on Fabi's journey (played by Philip Kapell), instantly connects with the audience, prompting them to question the sacrifices they've made in the name of acceptance. Georg's direction skillfully balances absurdity with emotional sincerity, creating a work that feels both unique and deeply relatable.

The film shines in how it reflects Fabi's inner conflict through its aesthetic and narrative choices. Lasse Frobese's cinematography employs claustrophobic angles and sharp lighting contrasts to heighten the sense of pressure, while the editing creates a rhythmic flow between tender moments and scenes of symbolic violence. The sound design is equally striking, capturing the tension and emotional confusion of Fabi's experience. These technical elements draw the audience deeply into the protagonist's mind, amplifying the psychological impact of his struggle to reject his family's tradition.

The performances are another highlight of "Crust", with Kapell delivering a sensitive and captivating portrayal of Fabi. He authentically conveys the character's journey, from initial anxiety to final resolve, without overplaying the emotional beats. The supporting cast, especially Sven Hönig and Heinz Wanitschek, adds depth to the family dynamics, making the conflicts feel all the more believable and engaging. By the end, "Crust" stands out as a work that, while deeply specific in its narrative approach, resonates universally. It invites audiences to reflect on the balance between honoring tradition and staying true to oneself. It's a memorable piece that firmly establishes itself as one of the best in its genre.

Fabi is a 12 years old boy , son of a man under controll of his father, brother of a tomboy , interested by an insect, not the most courageous but who must, in summer vacantion, continue the tradition of family in which the scars are only source of respect.

His sister seems more than brave, the father tries to convince him in his way but the first scar is the result of angry and its expression not very...heroic.

The final is great and Kruste itself is a smart ironic view about manhood.

The most significant virtue, for me, is the performance of young Philip Kapell, reminding Nikolay Burlyayev in Ivanovo detstvo..

This short film is incredibly good. Considering it was made by college students, I really enjoyed watching it. It had drama, fun und comedy as well. The cast was very interesting but great, especially the boy. The film is about a boy named Fabi whose family has many scars. You're only then really part of the family when you complete the tradition of getting your first scar: and Fabi doesn't want to have one. The boy, Fabi, tries to get accepted by his father, Otis. Both of them and Fabi's sister Bea spend their break in the countryside where their Granddad Winni lives. Winni has been building a rollercoaster for many years and wants Fabi to ride it first: his life project. Fabi is stuck between individuality and belonging. Like I said, great movie, even better then I described it, watch it, watch it, watch it!

Crust is really an emotional roller-coaster and a great film. The family dynamics are entertaining and intense, and the sense of 'belonging' is gripping. Although Fabi doesn't say a lot, the camera catches his thoughts so well: Philip Kapell is really a fine young actor. Really, the entire cast was 'spot-on.' The daughter was a dangerous and edgy foil to Fabi. The father/ grandfather relationship tore me apart inside. And the roller-coaster itself was like a fifth character in the film: it had its own personality! It was a comedy, a drama, a horror film, and a family film all at the same time. Really impressive work, as every minute of the film was an important and potent part of the whole.