Krabat (film)
Krabat is a 2008 German fantasy film directed by Marco Kreuzpaintner. It is based on the 1971 novel of the same name by Otfried Preußler, which is in turn based on a Sorbian legend. The film follows the story of Krabat, a young beggar boy during the Thirty Years' War, who becomes an apprentice to a mysterious miller.
Plot:
The film depicts Krabat's journey from a destitute orphan to a young man entangled in dark magic. After dreaming of a mill, Krabat is drawn to it and becomes one of the miller's eleven apprentices. He soon discovers that the mill is not what it seems, and the miller is a powerful sorcerer who demands complete obedience from his workers. Krabat learns the black arts alongside his fellow apprentices, but with this knowledge comes a heavy price. He discovers that each year, one apprentice must be sacrificed to maintain the miller's power.
Krabat, aided by his friend Tonda and his love interest Kantorka (a girl from a nearby village), attempts to break free from the miller's grasp. The film explores themes of freedom, friendship, love, and the corrupting influence of power. The central conflict revolves around Krabat's struggle to retain his humanity in the face of the mill's dark magic and to escape the miller's control before he becomes the next sacrifice.
Cast:
- David Kross as Krabat
- Daniel Brühl as The Miller
- Christian Redl as Master
- Paula Kalenberg as Kantorka
- Robert Stadlober as Tonda
Production:
The film was shot in Germany and Romania. The production design aimed to create a dark and realistic depiction of the 17th century and the magical elements of the story. The film features elements of Sorbian culture and mythology.
Reception:
Krabat received mixed to positive reviews. Critics generally praised the film's visual style and performances, particularly those of David Kross and Daniel Brühl. However, some criticized the film's pacing and its deviation from the source material. The film was a commercial success in Germany.
Awards and Nominations:
Krabat received several nominations and awards, including recognition for its visual effects and production design.