ZDF, 2012, 3 x 45 minutes
Three Generations in Germany: 20 – 40 – 60 is a three-part documentary about us and our era. The films portray three generations of people, all of whom find themselves standing at an important and decisive juncture in their life. In a gripping long-term observation, we follow the paths of our protagonists’ lives for over two and a half years. 20 – 40 – 60: Each age and generation have corresponding ‘life-issues’, which become particularly apparent when faced with a big, round-number birthday. All the people in our films are at an exciting point in their personal development: They are about to set the course of their lives for the first time, or are embarking upon a change of direction; some are dreaming of the future, whilst others have already begun to spend more time remembering the past; they are taking stock of their lives up until now, before heading off into uncharted waters. They reflect upon themselves, their surroundings and their era. The real-life stories depicted in this documentary enable a very special portrait of Germany to be constructed; every generation, every milieu, every lifestyle and regional difference is represented, embodied by our congenial and inspiring protagonists.