Watch Beyond Borders: Vivere

Beyond Borders: Vivere is a German drama film directed by Paolo Barzman and released in 2007. The movie follows three different women from different parts of Germany and how their lives change when they are touched by a tragic event. The first character we are introduced to is Jolanthe, played by Hannelore Elsner. She is a wealthy woman who is struggling to find meaning in her life after losing her husband. She becomes involved in humanitarian aid work and begins traveling to refugee camps around the world to help those in need. However, she soon discovers that her work is not as simple as she initially thought and becomes engulfed by the politics and corruption surrounding humanitarian aid.

The second character is Milena, played by Esther Zimmering. She is a young woman who falls in love with a refugee named Liali, played by Kim Schnitzer. When Liali's family is killed in a tragic event, he is forced to flee his homeland and seek refuge in Germany. Milena becomes determined to help him and his people and becomes involved in a dangerous underground movement dedicated to helping refugees.

The third character is Caroline, played by Jasmin Tabatabai. Caroline is a photojournalist who travels to the same refugee camps as Jolanthe to document the struggles faced by refugees. Caroline becomes romantically involved with a doctor working in the camp, but their relationship becomes complicated when the politics of the aid organization take over.

Throughout the movie, the three women's narratives intersect and diverge, highlighting the different ways in which people cope with tragedy and loss. Each character is uniquely impacted by the refugee crisis, and the film explores how their lives are connected despite their differences.

Beyond Borders: Vivere is a beautifully shot film that provides a thought-provoking look into the complexities of humanitarian aid and the refugee crisis. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the stark contrast between the opulent lifestyles of the German characters and the harsh realities faced by the refugees.

The performances are top-notch, particularly by Hannelore Elsner, who brings a depth and nuance to her portrayal of Jolanthe. Esther Zimmering and Kim Schnitzer also deliver strong performances, showcasing the desperation and determination of their characters.

The film is not without its flaws, however. At times, the plot can be convoluted, and the pacing can feel slow. Additionally, some of the characters' motivations and actions are not entirely clear or well-developed.

Overall, Beyond Borders: Vivere is a poignant and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the refugee crisis and the role of humanitarian aid. The film is emotionally impactful and visually stunning, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in the topic.