Talk of the Town

Running time: N/A

German film is not noted for its comedies but they exist! An excellent new example is Talk of the Town about life in the nineties among the thirtysomethings. Monika (Katja Riemann) is a no holds barred morning talk show host who dispenses advice to callers on their mostly sexual dilemmas and dysfunctions during the morning rush hour. She has troubles of her own however, including falling ratings, an anxious demanding boss, and, like the shoemaker's child without shoes, she has no significant other and no current prospects. Her mother wants grandchildren. Her gay brother is also anxious for her to have a love life. He persuades her to place a personal ad for romance (a very common practice in Germany) and the results are hilarious (as well as disappointing). Just when she is about to give up she meets Mr. Right. After an initial whirlwind period, the complications suddenly surface in spades! Katja Riemann is a very modern and liberated woman but with old fashioned problems. This a funny fast-moving comedy with many twists and turns. For those unfamiliar with modern German life it is both a revelation and an amusing peek at everyday personal issues. Talk of the Town won the first prize for best German film at the 1995 Munich Film Festival. --Ed Soohoo