Der rote Strumpf

Mari is nine, bright, curious and the daughter of a contented, happy family. Mrs. Panacek is seventy, a little confused, but still alert and sometimes even cheeky. She lives in a home to which her son-in-law has sent her in order to have a free hand in running the family fish business. Mari notices Mrs. Panacek because she is wearing two different stockings, including a red one. "Red keeps you warm," says Mrs. Panacek. When Mrs. Panacek runs away from the home, Mari takes her open-minded parents at their word and simply brings the old woman home with her. Didn't her parents always say that you have to be there for others too? Well, they didn't quite mean it that way, but after initial fears and insecurities, Mari's parents realize that they have to show commitment. The film tells the story of an unusual friendship without slipping into social utopia.

Directed by Wolfgang Tumler, Der rote Strumpf leans on a strong ensemble — Inge Meysel, Julie Tumler, Ulrike Bliefert — 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 screen titles of 1981.