Das Rad

Watch Das Rad

"Apparently, rocks are having conversations all around us, but they talk very, very slowly."
  • 2012
  • 8 hr
  • 7.6  (2,157)

Das Rad (The Wheel) is a German animated short film released in 2001, directed by Chris Stenner and Arvid Uibel. Featuring the voices of Rainer Basedow and Michael Habeck, this unique and thought-provoking film has garnered much acclaim for its innovative storytelling techniques and the depth of its narrative, which is portrayed through a rather uncommon perspective.

The film uses cutting-edge animation techniques for its time to depict the story of two anthropomorphic rocks—Hew and Kew—who have been around for millions of years, observing the rapid change and progress of human civilization. The duration of the film stretches across various epochs, giving viewers a sense of the relentless march of time and the comparatively fleeting existence of human advancements and concerns.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers get to see the world from the vantage point of these seemingly eternal figures. Hew and Kew provide a commentary on the events they witness, discussing the nature of the human race and the rapidly evolving technological landscape that defines it. Their dialogue is philosophical and comedic in parts, infused with wry observations that strike at the heart of human experience.

The animation style is notable for the way it blends a rough, stony texture for the characters with fluid motion and dynamic environments that change rapidly, underscoring the pace of human development. As a visual medium, Das Rad stands out from conventional animation by choosing protagonists that are the antithesis of the traditional lively animated character—instead, they are ancient rocks, immobile and seemingly unchanging.

Thematically, the film delves into topics such as the environmental impact of technological progress, the ephemeral nature of human existence, and the repetitive cycles of civilization. It prompts viewers to reflect on the significance of human actions in the vast timeline of the Earth's history, and to question the idea of progress and its consequences for the planet.

The rocks' perception of time is a key element in the narrative. What may feel like millennia to humans is but a brief moment for Hew and Kew. This shift in temporal perspective is brilliantly illustrated, and the audience is invited to ponder the relativity of time and how it shapes our understanding of life and the universe.

Rainer Basedow and Michael Habeck's voice acting brings depth and personality to the stony characters, enriching the film with a layer of characterization that feels both humorous and profound. The interplay between their voices conveys a rapport that echoes friendships that have withstood the test of time, quite literally in this case.

While the runtime is short, Das Rad is dense with visual metaphors and subtle cues that encourage multiple viewings to fully appreciate the layers woven into its story. It is a film that does not rely on complex plot devices, but instead on its ambiance and the power of its images and dialogue to challenge the viewer's imagination and intellect.

The movie delivers a message about how humanity's progress has significantly accelerated in recent times while highlighting the enduring nature of the more basic elements of our planet. It does not offer a didactic lesson but serves more as a mirror reflecting humanity's actions back upon itself, nudging the conscience with its gentle, yet profound storytelling.

Das Rad received numerous awards for its ingenuity and has been lauded for its impact, conciseness, and the simplicity with which it delivers its message. It's a testament to the film's quality and the filmmakers' skills that, despite its modest length, Das Rad has left a lasting impression on the short film circuit and continues to be admired by audiences worldwide.

In summary, Das Rad is a compelling and visually arresting animated short film that transcends ordinary storytelling techniques. The collaboration of Rainer Basedow and Michael Habeck, along with the direction of Chris Stenner and Arvid Uibel, has resulted in a film that pushes the boundaries of animation and challenges viewers to reflect on some of the most fundamental aspects of human existence and the environment. It serves as a potent reminder of our place within the grand tapestry of time and the long-lasting impact our species has on the Earth.

Das Rad is a 2012 animated movie with a runtime of 8 hours. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.

Das Rad
Description
Where to Watch Das Rad
Das Rad is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon. Some platforms allow you to rent Das Rad for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2012
  • Runtime
    8 hr
  • Language
    German
  • IMDB Rating
    7.6  (2,157)