Germany, 2024 / 99 Mins
Director: Ilker Çatak
Starring: Leonie Benesch, Leonard Stettnisch, Eva Löbau
With The Teacher’s Lounge, award-winning director İlker Çatak (I Was, I Am, I Will Be) creates a riveting work about school as a microcosm of society. Starring as a dedicated young teacher, Leonie Benesch (The White Ribbon, Babylon Berlin, Around The World In 80 Days) drives an intense atmosphere through her captivating portrayal of an idealist caught between clashing sides. THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE is a study in power dynamics, with themes of truth, justice, racism, respect, and children’s rights that demonstrate how individuals are worn down between entrenched positions.
Other strong roles are played by Eva Löbau, Michael Klammer, and, making his film debut in the lead child role, Leo Stettnisch. Cinematographer Judith Kaufmann (CORSAGE) was responsible for the visual design’s ominous mood.
Subtitles.