Suddenly widowed, resourceful super-mom presses on

This is one of Grethe Weiser's most endearing roles, as a middle-aged widow confronted with the task of providing for her large family. Refusing to give up, the matriarch finds many ways to assure a family income and to avoid giving up care for her children.

There are many very touching scenes, most noteworthy a moment where one of the children offers his "piggy bank" savings to help pay bills and buy groceries. Explaining that his father had promised to match the boy's savings so he could "go to camp" is sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Throughout this wonderful film, the mother fights with and for her children, supporting them not only materially, but emotionally, with an unconditional love and affection seldom seen. During a time where women were still expected to tend exclusively to kitchen, church and bearing children, a widow struggling with a large number of dependent children, virtually unaided by public support was unthinkable. This film is sure to empower women and gain respect for the efforts of mothers who selflessly put their children first.

German cinema is famous for its historical depth, expressionist aesthetics, and social-political engagement. It has moved from Expressionism to political reckoning, from New German Cinema's raw realism to contemporary genre experiments. Its legacy lies in both technical innovation and deep explorations of history, morality, and philosophy.

The comedy genre refers to a category of entertainment that aims to amuse and entertain audiences by using humor, wit, and comedic situations. Comedies are created with the primary intention of eliciting laughter and providing lighthearted enjoyment. They encompass a wide range of styles, tones, and themes, appealing to various tastes and audiences.

Will Ferrell, Angela Grillo, and Lap-Gei Cheung in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

The drama genre is a broad category that features stories portraying human experiences, emotions, conflicts, and relationships in a realistic and emotionally impactful way. Dramas delve into the complexities of human life, often exploring themes of love, loss, morality, societal issues, personal growth, with the aim to evoke an emotional response from the audience by presenting relatable and thought-provoking stories.

Mahershala Ali and Alex R. Hibbert in Moonlight (2016)

The family genre features stories specifically created to be suitable for a wide range of age groups within a family. Family-oriented content is designed to be enjoyed by both children and adults, often providing entertainment that is wholesome, relatable, and appropriate for all members of a family to watch or experience together.

Drew Barrymore and Pat Welsh in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

The romance genre features the theme of romantic relationships and emotional connections between characters. These stories focus on the development of love, desire, and intimacy between protagonists, often exploring the challenges, conflicts, and triumphs that arise in their relationships.

Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca (1942)

When Mutz' Hartmann's husband suddenly dies her legendary resilience is put to the test, and she enlists the brains and brawn of her three children to raise sufficient funds to keep their home and put food on the table.

Grethe Weiser and Hans Möller in Meine Kinder und ich (1955)

The Biggest Movies and TV Coming in September

"The Gentlemen" and "Slow Horses" return this fall, while the "Reacher" spin-off series "Neagley" makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

2026 Fall TV and Streaming Watch Guide

&quot;The Gentlemen&quot; and &quot;Slow Horses&quot; return this fall, while the &quot;Reacher&quot; spin-off series &quot;Neagley&quot; makes its debut. See our guide of the biggest Fall TV and streaming releases.

Get a closer look at these actors from their many TV and streaming series roles.

Streaming Stars, Then and Now

Ufa-Atelier, Berlin-Tempelhof, Berlin, Germany

Meine Kinder und ich

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