Summary of “Close to the Horizon” by Tim Trachte

One-line summary: “Close to the Horizon” is a heartfelt coming-of-age film that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery.

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Tim Trachte
• Writer: Tim Trachte
• Key Actors: Luna Wedler as Jessica, Jannik Schümann as Danny, Luise Befort as Alice
• Music Director: Christoph Blaser
• Director of Photography: Konstantin Freyer
• Producers: Christoph Müller, Marc Schmidheiny

Plot:

In “Close to the Horizon,” Jessica, a young woman with a passion for photography, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and love. After her father’s sudden death, Jessica finds solace in her best friend Danny, who has always been by her side. However, their friendship takes an unexpected turn when they share a passionate kiss. Confused and afraid of losing their friendship, Jessica decides to distance herself from Danny.

As Jessica tries to move on, she meets Alice, a free-spirited and adventurous woman who introduces her to a world of new experiences. Jessica and Alice develop a deep connection, and their relationship becomes a catalyst for Jessica’s personal growth. Together, they embark on a road trip, capturing moments of beauty through Jessica’s camera lens.

Throughout the film, Jessica grapples with her feelings for both Danny and Alice, torn between the familiarity of her friendship with Danny and the excitement of her blossoming romance with Alice. As she navigates her emotions, Jessica learns valuable lessons about love, forgiveness, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Themes and Motifs:

“Close to the Horizon” explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the complexities of love. It delves into the idea that sometimes we must take risks and step out of our comfort zones to truly find ourselves. The film also examines the fragility of relationships and the challenges of balancing multiple emotions and desires.

Motifs of photography and capturing moments play a significant role in the film, symbolizing the characters’ desire to freeze time and hold onto fleeting moments of happiness. The camera becomes a tool for Jessica to express herself and explore her identity.

Reception and Legacy:

Upon its release, “Close to the Horizon” received positive reviews for its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances. Luna Wedler’s portrayal of Jessica was particularly praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. The film resonated with audiences, especially young viewers who could relate to the themes of self-discovery and navigating complex relationships.

While “Close to the Horizon” did not receive major awards or nominations, it left a lasting impact on the coming-of-age genre in German cinema. It is regarded as a poignant exploration of young love and the challenges of growing up.

Recommendation:

“Close to the Horizon” is a beautifully crafted film that captures the complexities of love and self-discovery. With its heartfelt performances and stunning cinematography, it is a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age stories. The film’s exploration of friendship and the pursuit of happiness will resonate with viewers of all ages.

Memorable Quote:

“Sometimes, you have to let go of what you know to find out who you are.”