The thirteen year old Janni is depressed, because she's still a little behind in her physical development. This leads to bullying remarks from her classmates. One day, a film crew comes to her school to find a candidate for the role of a Prince in a movie. They choose Janni, who they think is a boy. She takes on the role. At school, she tells her classmates she plays a Princess. When the moment of truth approaches she must find the self-confidence to invite the class to the premiere.
Acting
Bettina Hohensee's face contains multitudes.
Direction
Friedrich trusts silence more than dialogue.
Costume
The prince outfit as armor and revelation.
Director
Gunter Friedrich
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Made in East Germany's final years, the film's exploration of identity resonates with a society on the brink of forced reinvention.
Bettina Hohensee was cast after the director spotted her in a school play — her actual shyness became Janni's armor.
XG
