"Single Bells" is a German-language movie from 1998, so this one will soon have its 20th anniversary. The director is Austrian Xaver Schwarzenberger (Otto) and the writer is his (then) wife Ulrike. It is a relationship comedy with occasional dramatic moments as well, fro example dealing with the desire to become a mother. The films runs for almost 90 minutes and the most known cast member is certainly Martina Gedeck, back then still in her 30s and looks pretty stunning. German film buffs will find more known names/faces perhaps in Bloéb, von Koczian and others. The title already tells us that the films takes place mostly during the holidays and if there is a time to watch it, it is also the month of December. But actually, there isn't really as the quality is never high. Of course, you can say that in a realistic character study nothing happens usually and it is also true for this film, but there is also nothing interesting about this film either. Most of the characters were honestly not really likable and from a subjective perspective I felt that Bloéb's character was very unlikable in particular and why we should cheer for him and Gedeck's character to get back together, that's a mystery to me. All in all, the story was also pretty predictable and the acting isn't much better. Yes there is an okay moment comedy-wise here and there, but it's not just enough in quality, but also not enough in quantity as the solid scenes are merely enough for a film under 60 minutes perhaps. What baffles me the most is how this film was received well enough that they decide to make a(n equally forgettable) sequel shortly afterward and both were actually small screen releases. I myself have to give this film we have a here a thumbs-down as I cannot say I enjoyed the watch for the most part. Bearable during the holidays, otherwise stay far far away. Not recommended.
Review of Single Bells
