Watch The Fatherless

The Fatherless is a poignant and powerful drama from Austria that tells the story of four siblings whose lives are upended when they learn that their father has died. The film, which was directed by Marie Kreutzer, is a slow burn, building an atmosphere of tension and unease as the characters struggle to come to terms with their loss and the many secrets that their father kept hidden during his life.

At the center of the story is the youngest sibling, Sascha (played by Andreas Kiendl), a struggling musician who has never quite been able to find his place in the world. When his father's death brings him back to the family home, he finds himself confronted with a host of painful memories and unresolved conflicts from his past.

Sascha's three siblings are also struggling to cope with their father's death in their own ways. Oldest sister Miriam (Andrea Wenzl) is a successful businesswoman who seems to have it all, but is hiding a dark secret of her own. Second oldest brother Thomas (Simon Schwarz) is a teacher who is struggling to connect with his teenage son, while middle sister Sophie (Emily Cox) is a single mother who is still searching for meaning in her life.

As the family gathers to mourn their father's passing, they must confront not only their grief, but also the many ways in which their father's secrets have shaped their lives. It becomes clear that their father was not the man they thought he was, and that his legacy has left a lasting impact on each of them.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Fatherless is the way in which it weaves together the stories of its many characters, creating a complex and nuanced portrayal of family dynamics. Each character is given their own arc and backstory, and the film takes its time in exploring their journey towards healing and reconciliation.

At the same time, The Fatherless is not afraid to delve into some uncomfortable truths, particularly when it comes to the ways in which children can be affected by their parents' actions. The film does not shy away from showing the damage that can be done by secrets and lies, and it is a sobering reminder of the importance of honesty in family relationships.

The film is beautifully shot, with Kreutzer making full use of the stunning Austrian countryside as a backdrop to the story. The score, by composer Oliver Stotz, is also top-notch, adding to the film's brooding atmosphere with its haunting melodies.

Overall, The Fatherless is a moving and thought-provoking drama that explores the complexities of family relationships with sensitivity and nuance. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of honesty and communication in family dynamics, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of loss and adversity.

The Fatherless is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.