Nur ein Tümpel

The film shows the diverse life in a pond that is under nature conservation (biotope): rare plants and animals form a community. Algae, plankton, insects, birds, frogs, and snakes. Microscopic images of microorganisms.

Directed by Eugen Schuhmacher, Anton Kutter, Nur ein Tümpel leans on a strong ensemble — Walter Holten — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1939.