Watch The Bread of Those Early Years

The Bread of Those Early Years is a German drama film from 1962, directed by Herbert Vesely. The film tells the story of a young man named Walter, played by Christian Doermer, who is trying to find his place in the world after finishing school. Walter is not sure what he wants to do with his life and spends his time daydreaming, playing the piano and spending time with his girlfriend.

Walter lives with his parents in a small apartment in a working-class neighborhood. His father, a factory worker, is disappointed in his son's lack of ambition and frequently reminds him that he needs to get a job and support himself. Walter's mother, on the other hand, is more supportive of her son's creative pursuits and encourages him to pursue his dreams.

Throughout the film, Walter meets a variety of characters who help him discover more about himself and his place in the world. One of the most important of these characters is his friend Axel, played by Michael Hinz, who is a aspiring writer. Axel encourages Walter to find his own voice and to express himself through his music. Another significant character is Eva, played by Karen Blanguernon, who is a waitress that Walter meets at a cafe. Eva is a free spirit who introduces Walter to new experiences and inspires him to be more adventurous.

As Walter starts to explore his creativity and pursue his passions, he also begins to come into conflict with his father's expectations for him. His father wants him to follow in his footsteps and work in the factory, but Walter feels trapped by the idea of living a life of conformity. He yearns for something more meaningful and fulfilling.

The Bread of Those Early Years is a character-driven film that explores themes of self-discovery, creativity, and the search for meaning. It is a thoughtful and nuanced portrayal of a young man coming of age in a society that values conformity over individuality. The film is notable for its rich visual style, with stunning black and white cinematography that captures the grit and beauty of post-war Germany.

One of the standout performances in the film is by Vera Tschechowa, who plays Erika, a wealthy and sophisticated woman that Walter meets at a party. Erika is mysterious and seductive, and she draws Walter into a world of high culture and sophistication. Through his interactions with Erika, Walter learns about the pleasures and dangers of pursuing a life of luxury and excess.

Overall, The Bread of Those Early Years is a moving and thought-provoking film that explores important questions about what it means to be a young person in a changing world. It is a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to conform to societal norms and struggled to find their own path in life.