Survival in Berlin-Neukölln

Synopsis

Survival in Berlin-Neukölln (original title: Überleben in Neukölln) is a poignant 2017 German documentary directed by Stefan Stricker that explores the daily lives and struggles of youth in the culturally diverse Neukölln district of Berlin. The film paints an authentic and raw portrait of a neighborhood known for its vibrant immigrant communities, economic challenges, and social tensions. Through intimate interviews and vivid street-level footage, it sheds light on personal stories of resilience, identity, and survival against the backdrop of urban hardship. Stricker's observational style offers viewers an unfiltered glimpse into how these young individuals navigate the complexities of cultural integration, social exclusion, and the pursuit of future opportunities, making the film both a social study and an emotional journey.

Cast

• Stefan Stricker

• Enana Alassar

• Kandis Wiliams

• Marcel Weber

• Lothar Wiese

• Siboney La Habana

Reviews

Survival in Berlin-Neukölln has garnered generally positive feedback from critics and audiences appreciative of its candid and humanizing portrayal of urban youth. On IMDb, the documentary holds a favorable user rating, with many praising its honest storytelling and the director's unobtrusive approach that allows the subjects’ voices to shine authentically. Critics from German media outlets such as Die Zeit and Der Spiegel commended the film for its nuanced representation of Neukölln's socio-cultural landscape, noting that it avoids sensationalism and instead fosters empathy and understanding. Some reviewers, however, point out that the film’s slow pacing and lack of a traditional narrative arc may challenge viewers expecting a conventional documentary structure. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a dedicated rating due to limited international reviews, but Metacritic’s aggregated scores reflect moderate acclaim, highlighting the film's contribution to social discourse about immigrant communities in Europe. Overall, Survival in Berlin-Neukölln is celebrated for its social relevance, authenticity, and the compassionate lens through which the director captures a complex urban milieu.