Rumspringa

Was a great fun movie, with a positive vibe on how there is a happy balance that we should all aim for between modern technology life, and the extreme backward/purist way of life. Sure it may have been seen before, but the Amish take on things was kinda fun. Watched in English translation as was lazy and didn't want to read, but willing to watch again in German to get the true feeling from the actors.

I've read reviews that want an LGBTQ+ result, based on two guys becoming friends. I remember when you could be friends without it having to result in a relationship, no matter what gender. Closeness doesn't equal relationship, it's ok and normal to be a friendship, no matter how close. Hey, I live those every day.

How many gags can one make when a young Amish fellow gets dropped into Berlin with no one to guide him? As some may know, as a young child, Amish kids get a chance to experience modern society before they choose to commit to the life Amish lead, which is called Rumspringa. Thus as our protagonist's flight arrives in Berlin, his bags get taken by mistake and he befriends another young guy with an Amish styled beard. He shows him the ropes on partying and women. From this point, which started off with potential, turns into a corny teen relationship story as the Amish guy of course slowly breaks with his traditions yet conversely the modern people he meets are enamored by the sustainable way the Amish live so now he's hip. Will the Amish bloke party too hard, find romance or be happy to return home? Overall, it had light jokes, terribly written character interactions, unconvincing character decisions yet the story was moderately engaging and the cinematographer framed up a couple eye catching shots. A far cry from "Kingpin".

Okay, so at times it was corny, unrealistic and not overly deep, but I enjoyed this film nonetheless. The bit of insight into Amish culture was intriguing and, as a German speaker, the language differences between Pennsylvania "Dutch" and modern, slangy German were fun.

There were some tender and emotional moments, and it was cool to see heterosexual male characters comfortably expressing genuine affection in a way that didn't seem forced. There are no politics here, no sides to choose, nothing but humans trying to make their way in a confusing world.

At a time when cynicism holds so much sway, it felt refreshing to watch an open-hearted film with likable characters.

The objective part of me rated this movie a 6, but my more sentimental side would have added a star or two.

I found this movie refreshing and sweet.

It makes you reflect one what truly matters in life.

It makes us see the dysfunctional society we live in and how some folks live so simply with a good heart.

I liked this movie a lot.

Such a refreshing opportunity for this Gay Dutch woman born in Reading Pennsylvania way back in the 1940's .This Berliner slant on an Amish male young adult spending his Rumspringa year "sowing wild oats" prior to committing / or not committing to a life of the Plain People of Lancaster County in the Pennsylvania Dutch Country is a sweet film.

The viewer has an insider look at the fashionable cynicism of the young, coddled and privileged generation surrounding us almost everywhere. As this film moves forward many of the Old Amish ways give a framework of honesty and openness to the characters trying to make jest of The Rumspringa , Jacob. This film is enjoyable on many levels and this outsider American viewer found a deep respect for Amish Values in this German made film.

Carve out time in 2024 America to see Rumspringa, You could think about honestly and expressing feelings in your own contemporary life. Take a chance and check out this film.