Phantoms of July

Sehnsucht in Sangerhausen

Germany | 2025 | 90 min

Language: German, Persian

Subtitles: English

Not for persons under 7

Director(s): Julian Radlmaier

Script: Julian Radlmaier

Cast: Clara Schwinning, Maral Keshavarz, Henriette Confurius, Paula Schindler, Ghazal Shojaei, Kyung-Taek Lie, Buksori Lie, Marlene Hauser, Jérémie Galiana

Production: Blue Monticola Film

Distribution: Bendita Film Sales

Drama | Comedy

Yearning Summer Vibes Feelgood On the Road Critics Choice Society Mystery Friendship

Intersection

Screenings:

The beautifully photographed German town of Sangerhausen provides an excellent summery setting for Julian Radlmaier’s comedy. The town turns into a milieu that is overshadowed by both the communist past of East Germany and the history of the early 19th century. This past remains present in contemporary life, while modern political concerns of Germany and Europe – the rise of far-right ideologies and militarism – linger in the background.

Rather than emphasizing the apparent gravity of its subject matter, Radlmaier’s light, almost Rohmeresque style creates a unique atmosphere. The serious themes of the film are contrasted by everyday life and chance encounters. A 19th century maid, a contemporary working mother, and an Iranian vlogger may seem to have nothing in common, yet the film seamlessly weaves the stories of these different characters into one cohesive body of work.

Beneath its light exterior emerges a formally ambitious film that demonstrates just how much skillful cinematic storytelling can enhance a film's overall enjoyment.

Juho Lipponen

Updated 2026-07-30 17:30:10 UTC