Achim van Borries
Allemagne 2004 35mm 88min. german english s-t.

Set in Germany in 1927 and based on a true story, Love in Thoughts is a moody tale of longing and jealousy that captures the tragic romanticism of youthful love and obsession. Günther, a wealthy and smug prep school student and his working-class friend Paul, an introverted poet, both long to feel a lust for life that can only be fulfilled through their consuming passion for true love. The boys plan a weekend at the country home of Günther’s family with his seductive sister Hilde. Paul immediately falls for the beautiful and free-spirited teenager and it appears that his feelings are reciprocated. But Hilde is secretly engaged in a steamy romance with Hans, her brother’s former lover. When Hans surprisingly turns up, he sets in motion a roller coaster of emotions that soon rages out of control. Drunk on absinthe, music and their lust for life, the four young people are caught in a deadly maelstrom. With brilliant performances by August Diehl and Daniel Bruehl (Goodbye, Lenin!) and directed by the co-screenwriter of Goodbye, Lenin!, Love in Thoughts is a sensual and magnificent film. – KS