I can safely say that Nikias Chryssos’ directorial début DER BUNKER is unlike anything you have ever seen.
I knew Der Bunker had great reviews from the festival circuit. Apart from that, I knew nothing about it, so I jumped at the chance to review when it came my way.
Firstly I would like to say that this movie is not suited for everyone. Don’t get me wrong this movie is perfect in so many ways – it’s just not for everyone. A film suited for people who like their movies a little obscure; the film isn’t disturbing, it’s just very, very strange.
I believe that if you’re a fan of the weird and wonderful, then you should immediately go and watch Der Bunker. I can guarantee you that the film is unlike anything you have ever seen.
So what is Der Bunker about ?
The film focuses on a guy who is only referred to as Student (Pit Bukowski). He has important scientific work, and he needs complete solitude and isolation. At the start we see Student walk through a blizzard in harsh, cold woodlands to his new rental property. I am sure we’re seeing these opening scenes to show us that it ain’t going to be easy getting back from wherever he is going.
When he arrives he meets the head of the household (Father) who greets him and shows him to his room. He soon notices that this room is nothing like it said in the advertisement. Even better, the property isn’t a house, it’s an old war bunker, and the family that are living there are very strange. There is Father (David Scheller), Mother (Oona von Maydell) and their child, Klaus (Daniel Fripan).
Mother and Father love their only child, and believe that Klaus is destined to become president of the United States. Klaus just has a few problems when it comes to learning, he isn’t the brightest candle in the room, a bit slow. When Father’s teaching methods fail to impress Mother, they enlist Student as Klaus’ new full-time teacher.
Student finds himself caught somewhere between imprisonment and getting sucked into this weird lifestyle.
I honestly think I have told you enough. This film is so crazy, if I try to put it into words then I could spoil something for you. It is best going into Der Bunker knowing as little as possible.
Der Bunker is a brilliantly written/directed début. Nikias Chryssos introduces characters with no back-story, but are easily some of the best characters to hit the screen in some time. Such a weird and unique tale brought to life by so little.
A great achievement for any filmmaker, it’s hard to believe that Der Bunker is his first feature-length. It’s going to be shocking to see what movie this man releases on us next. I will be eagerly awaiting its arrival.
Der Bunker will be released on DVD and Blu-ray (and 90-day exclusive streaming on Vimeo) August 23, 2016, and on most major VOD outlets beginning in December 6.
