Watch Transit

Transit is a 2018 German-language drama film directed by Christian Petzold. It is adapted from the novel by Anna Seghers and tells a story of a man who tries to escape Paris after the Nazis have taken over France. The film is set in modern-day Marseille, but the story takes place during World War II. The film follows a German refugee named Georg, played by Franz Rogowski, who impersonates a dead writer and steals his transit papers in order to flee France. Along the way, he meets a woman named Marie, played by Paula Beer, who is searching for her husband. As Georg falls in love with Marie, he finds himself torn between his new life and loyalty to his old identity.

Transit is a unique story of wartime escape and love. It is not just about the physical journey from one place to another, but also the emotional journey of the characters. The film uses this extraordinary scenario to take a closer look at the human condition.

Petzold creates an atmosphere of urgency and tension that is palpable throughout the entire movie. Every moment of Transit feels tense, as the characters are always on the edge of being discovered by the authorities. Georg’s precarious situation is made even more fraught by his growing affection for Marie.

The cinematography in Transit is stunning, showcasing both the beauty and the danger of Marseille. The city is a character in its own right, with its winding streets and bustling cafes adding to the tension of the film. Petzold has a talent for using locations to enhance his films, and Transit is no exception.

Franz Rogowski delivers a fantastic performance as Georg. He manages to convey the desperation and uncertainty of his situation with subtlety and nuance. Paula Beer is also excellent as Marie, bringing a depth and complexity to her character that is rare in war films.

One of the most remarkable elements of Transit is its timelessness. Despite taking place during World War II, the film feels incredibly relevant to modern times. It explores issues of identity, displacement, and love in a way that resonates with audiences today. The film presents a stark reminder that, even in times of crisis, humanity endures.

The film also raises thought-provoking questions about identity and what it means to be oneself. Georg’s impersonation of the dead writer raises questions about whether our identity is inherently tied to our name or our role in society. Is who we are more than what we call ourselves?

Transit is not just a war film, but a story of human connection and solidarity. This is shown through the relationships Georg forms with the other refugees he meets along his journey. These connections become a source of comfort and support for Georg, and remind us of the importance of community in times of crisis.

The score by Stefan Will is haunting and beautiful, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film. The music moves between melancholic and uplifting, reflecting the emotional journey of the characters.

Ultimately, Transit is a film about the human experience in a time of crisis. It is a story of love and survival, of identity and solidarity. With its stunning cinematography, exceptional performances, and thought-provoking themes, Transit is a must-see film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.