The village Schabbach experiences Germany's triumphs and tragedies from 1989 to 2000.
DirectorEdgar Reitz
WritersEdgar Reitz, Thomas Brussig
The Happiest People in the World (1989)
Dec 15, 2004
On the evening of that historic day, November 9, 1989, Hermann Simon and Clarissa Lichtblau meet again after many years. In the lobby of a Berlin hotel, the former lovers fall into each other's arms. Hermann has become a renowned conductor and Clarissa a celebrated singer.
The World Champions (1990)
Dec 17, 2004
The housewarming party also coincides with the opening match of the World Cup. Shortly afterwards, Gunnar embarks on a dream career in Berlin as a “wall breaker” and wants to use his newfound wealth to win back his ex-wife Petra. Hermann and Clarissa plan to take a year off so they can finally be together in their house. Meanwhile, Ernst, who flew to Russia in his Cessna, does not return.
The Russians are Coming (1992 -1993)
Dec 20, 2004
The American troops have abandoned Hahn military airport. Now Russian-speaking people in need of assistance are moving into their quarters. At the same time, Ernst returns unexpectedly from Russia. Hermann's daughter Lulu also appears unexpectedly after a long time, accompanied by two friends. One evening, the three of them celebrate Lulu passing her architecture exam.
Everyone's Doing Well (1995)
Dec 22, 2004
The happiness of togetherness cannot be forced. Clarissa knows that singing and the stage are still her destiny, and she accepts new engagements. Hermann is seized by blind jealousy. He wants to make sure that the rift he feels inside himself extends throughout the whole world. With a sense of foreboding, he visits his home village. But there, everyone is in a cheerful mood.
The Heirs (1997)
Dec 27, 2004
Hermann and Clarissa have found their way back to each other, but the price for their new togetherness is high: Clarissa's cancer. Hermann visits her every day and cares for her devotedly. His daughter Lulu and his grandson Lukas now live with him in his house. Meanwhile, after Anton's death, “Optische Werke Simon” is in a state of permanent crisis.
Farewell to Schabbach (1999 - 2000)
Dec 29, 2004
Gunnar decides to visit his ex-wife Petra and his two daughters, who are now teenagers. He meets the family just as Petra and Reinhold are leaving to attend Hermann and Clarissa's concert. The next day, he has to begin a six-month prison sentence for drunk driving. From prison, he organizes a big party.
