Die Scheinheiligen

The starting point is the small (and real) town of Daxenbrunn, which has the misfortune of being located right on the highway to Salzburg. But Mayor Matthias and his friend and district administrator Dr. Seigis see the seemingly unfavorable geographical location as an opportunity to fill the empty coffers -- "Hendl, mehr sog I ned". A highway grill is supposed to redevelop the area, but in addition to the building permit, the land is also needed, and this is defended to the death by the old and stubborn farmer's wife Magdalena (great: Maria Singer) with weapons (!). Events come thick and fast when, almost simultaneously and independently of each other, art carver Johannes and asylum seeker Theophile turn up in the sleepy village and turn the local order upside down with their unflinching attitude.

Directed by Thomas Kronthaler, Die Scheinheiligen leans on a strong ensemble — Maria Singer, Johannes Demmel, Michael Emina — 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 comedy titles of 2001.