GFF26: KARLA

Australian premiere

Munich, 1962.

Twelve-year-old Karla (brilliant newcomer Elise Krieps,) runs away from her family to bring forward serious allegations of abuse against her father. Taking the courageous step of pressing charges against the person meant to protect her, Karla stands up in a world in which children are supposed to remain silent, but her story is met with skepticism.

Karla insists on telling her story in court in her own way, leaving the unspeakable unsaid. In the process, she forms a tentative bond with compassionate Judge Lamy (Rainer Bock, The White Ribbon), who offers quiet support as she learns to navigate a flawed system on her own terms.

Based on the powerful true story of the landmark case in Germany, the first where a child sued their abusive parent, it is told with great sensitivity and emotional precision by debut director Christina Tournatzés. Featuring atmospheric cinematography, Karla is a compelling drama about truth, agency and the fight for justice in a society that would rather look away than listen.

German with English subtitles

AWARDS

Munich Film Festival 2025 | WINNER: Best Screenplay, Best Director
Thessaloniki Film Festival 2025 | WINNER: FIPRESCI Prize, Best Screenplay, Audience Award
Bavarian Film Awards 2026 | WINNER: Best Screenplay, Best Actor