English summary

Quiet, very well-acted drama set in war-torn Germany, 1919

The wounds of the First World War are still raw and the German people are trying to come to terms with their defeat. Nationalism often flares up in rural communities; as well as an aversion to everything related to France.  Then, at a graveside, a mysterious young man, a Parisian, appears. This is where Frantz is buried, and where Anna visits faithfully every day. The soldier has something he needs to say, and he needs to say it to Frantz’s parents and fiancée. His appearance sows great confusion: for a grieving husband and wife, for a lonely young widow and, intriguingly, for the Frenchman himself.

The historical period is beautifully recreated. There are plenty of plot twists, flashbacks (shot in colour) and a surprising ending. The young actress Paula Beer who plays Anna received the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the Venice Film Festival 2016!