Netto

The story in "Netto" is particular to the East Berlin/West Berlin divide, yet it is also a universal story that has repeated itself one way or another in every time and culture. It is a story of a decent man who has 'failed' at life, and how he and his son relate to each other.

The father in this story is an East German who has been unable to adjust to changing times and circumstances. He is estranged from his family, unemployed, and bogged down psychologically in a past that is no longer applicable to the world around him -- he is drowning. His teenage son comes to live with him unexpectedly when the boy's mother decides to move to a new house with her new husband/partner.

This is a 'slice of life' story, with beautifully nuanced characters and a remarkable amount of insight into human relationships and psychology. The acting is exceptional.

"Netto" ends somewhat abruptly, and that is the only real criticism or complaint that I have about it. A very good film.