Clowns

Nick, an actor, is a clown in traffic, hoping for better times. Charlie, Robin’s mother, is in a police car, about to go to jail, desperate to escape with her son. Joe, a madman, robs banks, hoping for media attention. Robin, still a child, needs his mother. Nick’s clown costume causes confusion when two police officers mistake him for the robber. Charlie escapes, leaving Nick behind. Charlie wants to escape quickly, but Nick doesn’t want to leave. Joe escapes from a mental institution and is angry that someone else is getting credit. Charlie arrives at the children’s home, but the police are already there. Inspector Fuchs believes Nick and Charlie are accomplices and has Robin watched to catch the mother. Nick saves Charlie and hides with her in the broom closet. They begin to understand each other, but a crazy day ends, and a long year lies ahead.

Directed by Tim Trageser, Clowns leans on a strong ensemble — Frank Giering, Anna Thalbach, Jochen Nickel — 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.