Waves

Wellen

Waves is a captivating film adapted from Eduard von Keyserling’s 1911 novel of the same title, which immerses viewers in the intricate dynamics of an aristocratic German family during their summer retreat on the picturesque Baltic coast, now recognized as part of Lithuania. The narrative centers around family members who bask in the beauty of their idyllic surroundings, yet beneath the surface, we witness the complexities of their relationships unfold. Themes of love, longing, and societal expectations interweave as the family interacts with neighboring vacationers, leading to flirtations, confrontations, and ultimately revealing deep-seated desires and resentments.

As the characters navigate their personal dramas, Waves poignantly captures the essence of a fading aristocratic social order. The film skillfully juxtaposes their seemingly carefree lifestyle with the undercurrents of change threatening to upend their existence. The warmth of the summer sun starkly contrasts with the looming shadow of impending disaster; the family is oblivious to the social upheaval and turbulence that the world outside their enclave is about to experience. This serves as a profound metaphor for the disintegration of old-world values, all while foreshadowing the tumultuous events of World War I that would soon ensue.

The rich and textured storytelling in Waves not only reflects on the individual struggles of love and loss but also comments on the broader societal transitions occurring during that era. Through its nuanced character portrayals and lush cinematography, the film invites audiences to reflect on the fragility of happiness and the inevitability of change. In doing so, Waves stands as both a poignant character study and a historical tapestry that captures a pivotal moment in time before a world was irrevocably altered.

Full Cast of Waves

Marie Bäumer as Alice von Köhne-Jasky

Marie Bäumer

Alice von Köhne-Jasky
In the poignant film "Waves," Marie Bäumer delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance as Alice von Köhne-Jasky, a character who embodies the complexities of love, loss, and resilience. Bäumer captivates the audience with her portrayal of Alice, a woman whose life is marked by the ebb and flow of personal tragedies and triumphs. Her ability to convey the depth of Alice's grief and the quiet strength with which she navigates her healing journey is both compelling and genuine. Bäumer's performance is a testament to her range as an actress, as she seamlessly transitions from moments of profound sorrow to those of tender hope. Her on-screen presence is a pillar of the film's emotional landscape, offering a raw and authentic depiction of a woman finding her way through the tumultuous waves of life's unpredictable nature. With her subtle expressions and powerful silences, Bäumer's Alice becomes an emblem of the human spirit's capacity for endurance and the beauty that can emerge from the depths of despair.
Matthias Habich as Rolf von Buttlär

Matthias Habich

Rolf von Buttlär
Matthias Habich delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Rolf von Buttlär in the movie 'Waves'. His portrayal of the character is a standout element of the film, capturing the essence of a man grappling with the complexities of his past and present. Habich brings a depth of emotion to the role, conveying Rolf's internal struggles with a quiet intensity that resonates on screen. His interactions with the other characters are laced with a sense of gravitas and sincerity, which accentuates the film's exploration of human connection and the impact of personal choices. Habich's performance is a testament to his talent for embodying multifaceted characters, and he skillfully navigates the ebb and flow of Rolf's journey, making his character's arc both believable and emotionally engaging. His work in 'Waves' is a highlight for audiences and critics alike, showcasing his ability to bring a sense of authenticity and depth to the complex persona of Rolf von Buttlär.
Sebastian Blomberg as Til Knop

Sebastian Blomberg

Til Knop
In the movie 'Waves,' Sebastian Blomberg delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Til Knop, a character whose complexity is a driving force within the narrative. Blomberg embodies Til with a subtle intensity, capturing the internal struggle of a man grappling with the pressures of his personal and professional life. His portrayal is marked by a palpable sense of emotional depth, as he navigates through scenes with a restraint that speaks volumes, often conveying the weight of Til's decisions and the consequences that ripple from them. Blomberg's performance is particularly poignant in the quieter moments, where the slightest change in expression or body language reveals the depth of Til's inner turmoil. His chemistry with the rest of the ensemble is authentic, making his interactions feel genuine and charged with the tension of complex relationships. Overall, Blomberg's depiction of Til Knop is a standout feature of 'Waves,' offering a character Study that is both believable and emotionally resonant.
Monica Bleibtreu as Generalin von Palinkow

Monica Bleibtreu

Generalin von Palinkow
Monica Bleibtreu delivered a commanding performance as Generalin von Palinkow in the movie 'Waves', a role that showcased her remarkable range and depth as an actor. Her portrayal of the steely military leader was both authoritative and nuanced, capturing the complexities of a woman navigating the challenges of leadership in a male-dominated environment. Bleibtreu's Generalin von Palinkow was a figure of strength and composure, yet she imbued the character with subtle vulnerabilities that hinted at the personal sacrifices and moral ambiguities inherent in her position. Whether in scenes requiring a stern hand or those that revealed the general's inner turmoil, Bleibtreu's performance was a masterclass in character development, earning her critical acclaim for her ability to convey the weight of command and the emotional toll it exacts. Her presence on screen was magnetic, making Generalin von Palinkow one of the most memorable and compelling characters in the film.
Sunnyi Melles as Bella von Buttlär

Sunnyi Melles

Bella von Buttlär
In the poignant film "Waves," Sunnyi Melles delivers a touching performance as Bella von Buttlär, a character whose presence is both commanding and subtle. With a grace that belies the inner turmoil of her role, Melles portrays Bella with a nuanced sensitivity, capturing the essence of a woman caught between her past and the hope for redemption. Her interactions with the other characters are laced with a delicate balance of warmth and restraint, highlighting Bella's complex relationship with her own history and the impact she has on those around her. Sunnyi Melles brings a depth of emotion to the screen, allowing viewers to empathize with Bella's journey, as she navigates the waves of her life's choices and their far-reaching consequences. Her performance is a testament to her ability to convey the intricacies of human experience with authenticity and poise.
Christine Urspruch as Milling

Christine Urspruch

Milling
Christine Urspruch delivers a compelling and emotionally resonant performance as Milling in the film "Waves." Her portrayal is nuanced and understated, bringing a sense of authenticity to the character's complex emotional journey. As Milling, Urspruch navigates the intricate dynamics of the film's narrative with a quiet intensity, often conveying deep-seated feelings of concern and empathy through subtle facial expressions and body language. Her interactions with the other characters are laced with a genuine warmth and understanding, which serves as a counterbalance to the film's more intense moments. Urspruch's performance is particularly poignant during the film's most challenging scenes, where she brings to life the protective and nurturing aspects of Milling's personality, providing a stabilizing presence amidst the chaos. Her ability to embody the character's inner strength and kindness stands out, making her a memorable and standout figure in the ensemble cast of "Waves."
Christian Grashof as Geheimrat Frosenius

Christian Grashof

Geheimrat Frosenius
Peter Fitz as Graf von Köhne-Jasky

Peter Fitz

Graf von Köhne-Jasky
Sven Pippig as Fischer Steege

Sven Pippig

Fischer Steege

Crew of Waves

Full backstage crew list →