Synopsis

One of the most spectacular escapes from communist East Germany, in which two families sailed over the heavily fortified border in a homemade balloon, has been recreated as a thriller for the cinema.
Ballon (Balloon), by German director Michael Bully Herbig, tells the true story of the Strelzyks and the Wetzels, who built their balloon in a cellar in Thuringia. a state in the German Democratic Republic, before flying across the border into Bavaria one chilly night in September 1979 the release has coincided with the 28th anniversary of reunification and renewed soul-searching about German identity.

Critics Views

“German writer/director Michael Herbig has not completely abandoned his comedy roots, though, and creates a cosy-looking period story that is both funny and thrilling.” Radio Times

“It is an engrossing mixture of adventure yarn and methodical police procedure that generates moments of pulse-racing tension and captures a sense of a country where paranoia reigns and nobody can be trusted.” The List

“An amazing true story, told with grace and honesty, shedding light on recent German history and the repercussions of splitting a country with a border wall…. Not only a film for history buffs, but a contemporary look at family unity and a desperation to find a better life by going to extremes” Moviola

Film Rating

IMDb
 Critics N/A Audience 76%

Rotten Tomatoes
Critics positive review N/A  Audience liked it N/A

Stockbridge Audience: 93%