Herzklopfen

Walter Bannert's life-affirming film depicts the passionate love affair between an apprentice and a student from a middle-class family. Julia Stemberger's first film role also marked her breakthrough as a character actress. 16-year-old toolmaker apprentice David falls in love with Susanne, a politician's daughter of the same age. Their happiness doesn't last long: Susanne becomes pregnant, and David must compete in a boxing match against a seemingly superior opponent.

Directed by Walter Bannert, Herzklopfen leans on a strong ensemble — Nikolas Vogel, Julia Stemberger, Adolf Lukan — 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 drama titles of 1985.