DANI LEVY

Bil’s rating (out of 5):  BBB.5

Original title:  Alles Auf Zucker!

Germany, 2004.  X-Filme Creative Pool, ARTE, Bayerischer Rundfunk, Westdeutscher Rundfunk.  Screenplay by Dani Levy, Holger Franke.  Cinematography by Carl-Friedrich Koschnick.  Produced by Manuela Stehr.  Music by Niki Reiser.  Production Design by Christian M. Goldbeck.  Costume Design by Lucie Bates.  Film Editing by Elena Bromund.    

Hilariously twisted comedy about a debt-saddled man whose gambling problem convinces his wife to get rid of him once and for all. When he finds out that his mother has died and has left him a fortune, her will gives him the money on condition that he be reunited with his brother. This will be quite a challenge considering that our hero is culturally Jewish but otherwise not particularly devoted, while his only surviving family member is observant to the point of religious fervor. The plan is for the couple to reunite, for our titular hero to restore his relationship with his estranged daughter, and for them all to pass themselves off as fully kosher to make sure the inheritance goes smoothly. However, there’s a snooker championship that our Zucker knows he has a good chance of winning during the funeral…what to do? It’s a lighthearted romp through the craziness of family and fortune, and it leaves a smile on your face by the end.

European Film Award Nomination:  Best European Actor (Henry Hubchen); Best European Screenwriter