System Crasher - Wellington Film Society

Nora Fingscheidt, Germany 2019, 125 minutes, M Offensive language, content that may disturb

An intensive drama about a pre-pubescent girl who actually crashes Germany’s child and welfare system whilst on her quest for love and security… When neon pink flashing images flood the screen, it’s a sign that nine-year-old Benni has lost all control. She screams, swears, hits out and spits. Though she can be extremely violent, the traumatised girl is also lovable, understanding, vulnerable and very smart. Tossed from one foster home to the next, she dreams of nothing more than being reunited with her overstrained mother. Nora Fingscheidt has created a deeply moving portrait of the vulnerability of childhood, asking where Benni belongs, who can help her and how she can be supported. Through the commitment of an excellent cast and with its powerful narrative of a young girl who has lost her place in society, Fingscheidt challenges conventional attitudes towards innocence, systems of support and, ultimately, the role of the welfare state. - Juliane Grieb, London Film Festival 2019