Chinese Checkers

Directed by Betina Kuntzsch

The film takes the sprawling form of a Chinese checkers games, creating a collage of associations evoked by movements and gambles. Through one family, three different Germanys take shape, including their problematic subchapters. The film centres on the mother who is a passionate Chinese checkers player as well as a tailor and fashion designer in the GDR. The mother’s favourite piece of work is a showpiece dress with piping, cording, tabs and embroidery around the neckline. One has to love this film, if only for the tender re-animation of words we presumed obsolete.