Die goldenen Jahre

Retirement is supposed to be one of those times of life that we eagerly look forward to. Having the free time to do what we want, when we want, is thought to be liberating and thoroughly enjoyable. But, for some, the transition from full-time working life to full-time leisurely living can be challenging, especially in the relationships of long-partnered couples, as seen in this latest feature outing from director Barbara Kulcsar. When Peter Waldvogel (Stefan Kurt) retires from his job of 37 years, his wife, Alice (Esther Gemsch), looks forward to spending more time with him, growing closer and falling in love all over again, a process she hopes will begin with a Mediterranean cruise. But Peter is unsettled and restless, not sure what to do with himself. And, when a family friend suddenly dies, he becomes obsessed with his own mortality and well-being, so much so that it becomes irritating to Alice. She wants to enjoy life with her husband traveling, meeting new people and having new experiences. Those plans get thwarted at seemingly every turn, however, even when it comes to embarking on the cruise, developments that drive a widening wedge between Peter and Alice and threaten the very foundation of their marriage. Is this what retirement is supposed to be about? Alice doesn't think so, and these ever-intensifying circumstances push the couple to take a hard look at what their future will hold. In addressing this issue, the film presents a refreshingly honest take on what can emerge in the golden years of life, a time of transformation but not necessarily one that emerges in the form that we might have envisioned. Admittedly, some elements of the picture are rather predictable, but then there are also numerous twists and turns that take the story in unexpected directions. The film also would have benefitted from better audio quality (a growing problem with many releases these days) and a score that doesn't sound like it was plucked from a 1980s Neil Simon movie. However, the performances of this offering's fine ensemble cast, its beautiful cinematography of European locales, and its delightful and sometimes edgy humor make this romantic comedy-drama an enjoyable watch, now available online and in limited theatrical release. Undoubtedly, we'd all like for our golden years to live up to their hoped-for luster, and, if we approach them realistically, they truly can, as long as we provide the necessary spit and polish to make that happen.

I'll admit that I come to this film from an unusual angle. I am almost old enough to be the parent of the new retirees in the film. I spent a season in Zürich, and hadn't heard Schwizerdütsch in ages. The heart and gentleness of the comedy reminds me of Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau in another day. In our day, prosperity and long life expectancy make third and fourth acts exciting and daunting additions to our reality. The four main characters never saw that coming. They earn our respect even while we are having some laughs at their expense. "Life is a detour" is a remark made by a minor character. That would have been a better title for this film. It has something significant to say. It deserves an audience.