Canterbury Screens Fatherland

The film Fatherland is a surprising addition to Paweł Pawlikowski's trilogy of historical films, as it explores the intricate dynamics between Thomas Mann and his daughter Erika during a pivotal moment in German history. Directed by Pawlikowski, who co-wrote the screenplay with Hendrik Handloegten, the film features a talented cast, including Sandra Hüller and Hanns Zischler as Erika and Thomas Mann, respectively. With a runtime of 82 minutes and a 12A certificate, Fatherland is a drama and history film that delves into the complexities of post-war Germany.

The film has received widespread critical acclaim, with impressive scores from various review aggregators, including IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, TMDB, and Trakt. On Rotten Tomatoes, 93% of critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 8.0/10, while Metacritic assigns the film a score of 87 out of 100, indicating "universal acclaim". Critics have praised the film's direction, cinematography, and performances, with many highlighting the nuanced portrayal of the father-daughter relationship.

In terms of awards, Fatherland has already garnered significant recognition, including one win and six nominations, and has been selected as the Polish entry for Best International Feature Film at the 99th Academy Awards. The film's artistic direction has been particularly praised, with critics noting the impeccable craftsmanship and stunning black-and-white imagery. The cast's performances have also been commended, with Sandra Hüller and Hanns Zischler delivering impressive portrayals of Erika and Thomas Mann.

The Gulbenkian Arts Centre in Canterbury will screen Fatherland from Sunday, 15 November 2026, until Wednesday, 18 November 2026, at 23:00. Tickets are on sale: say tickets are with the button beside the article. This screening offers a unique opportunity to experience Paweł Pawlikowski's latest masterpiece on the big screen, and viewers can look forward to a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that explores the complexities of post-war Germany and the intricate relationship between Thomas Mann and his daughter Erika.