10-year-old Zoya has only been in Germany with her mother for a few years and loves to cook. She is supported by her cuddly mouse Mischka, who speaks to her in her grandfather’s voice.
Her mother Ilana works as a nurse, but her real passion is basketball. Zoya also trains with her mother’s children’s team, but constantly feels that she is not good enough, no matter what she does and how hard she trains. When Ilana takes Zoya off the court first again shortly before an important game, Zoya has had enough and runs away from home with Mischka.
Fortunately, Ilana is able to find her daughter and realizes what Zoya is really after, namely simply spending time with her mom.
THE MUSIC
Olga and I had extensive discussions about the music. It needed to be subtle and unobtrusive, capturing the essence of Zoya. We aimed to incorporate a Russian instrument for the lead melody, ultimately choosing the balalaika. Combined with guitars, it created the primary soundscape, evoking an intimate and beautiful atmosphere that complemented the film's warm visual aesthetic. This also depicted the intricate relationship between mother and child, which could be warm and loving at times, but cold and distant at others. This dynamic was portrayed through floating pads, symbolizing the emotional space between them.
We aimed for a delicate balance in the soundtrack, ensuring it wouldn't overpower the scenes but rather enhance the storytelling. The choice of the balalaika brought an authentic touch, resonating with the cultural backdrop. The guitar added layers of warmth, creating a cohesive and emotionally rich auditory experience. The use of floating pads provided a sense of ethereal distance, mirroring the fluctuating dynamics between the characters. This thoughtful combination of instruments and sounds beautifully underscored the narrative, enriching the viewer's connection to the characters and their journey.
Director: Olga Alexandra Müller Cinematography/Camera: Christoph Bockisch Film Music: Peter Albrecht Sound: Georg Becker Editing: Maximilian Färber Motion Design: Maximilian Färber Production Design: Lena Hölzl Producer: Caroline Verhoff, Olga Alexandra Müller Co-production: SWR Südwestrundfunk Production: Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg GmbH Costume Design: Antonia Karnetzky Makeup: Michelle Prax Gaffer: Rafael Winkler
CAST
Harry Schäfer, Monika Gossmann, Elvira Müller, Maxim Patapenka