In the morning 'Film Analysis' session, we were introduced to four East German films: Ballon, Sonnenallee, Goodbye Lenin!, and Das Leben der Anderen (the A-level study film).  Guided by guest speaker Judith Rifeser, we watched short clips and analysed the finer details of each scene, such as the use of music, background sounds, and camera positioning. We found her discussion of close-ups and long shots particularly interesting, as it showed how camera techniques shape the audience's perspective.

Additionally, it was inspiring to share the experience with so many other German language learners, each offering unique insights into the artistry of East German cinema.

After lunch, we watched Goodbye Lenin, a film about a family who lived in former East Germany during the German Reunification. The mother falls into a coma during the German Reunification and wakes up in a completely changed world. Her son then hides the reality of the new Germany from his mother to protect her. What ensues is a touching but very funny story about bidding goodbye to the socialist ideals and illusions of the GDR.

We really enjoyed watching this heartwarming story and would highly recommend it to others!

Following our visit to the British Film Institute, we went to the Winter Market a short distance away. The festive atmosphere was magical, with beautiful lights and stalls as well as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the opposite side of the Thames River. We were given some free time to find things we would like, such as the German Bratwurst and the stall selling German-style paper Christmas stars.

To conclude, we all had a great time in London, visiting the British Film Institute and Christmas Market as it gave us an opportunity to meet other German learners and see how German culture had spread from Germany all the way to the UK.

By Joanna & Sahasra