Wolfsland – Irrlichter

Synopsis

Wolfsland – Irrlichter, released in 2018, is a gripping German crime thriller that follows detective Jana Winter, portrayed by Götz Schubert, as she investigates a chilling case in the border regions near the Polish frontier. The story delves into the dark underbelly of cross-border crime, weaving complex characters and atmospheric suspense that highlights both the stark landscapes and the murky moralities involved. As Winter confronts mounting dangers and unravels a web of deceit, the film explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the haunting impact of past traumas. Wolfsland – Irrlichter stands out for its intense pacing and character-driven narrative that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Cast

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  Götz Schubert

  Burkhard "Butsch" Schulz

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  Yvonne Catterfeld

  Viola Delbrück

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  Franziska Petri

  Leonore Pfister

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  Jan Dose

  Ulli "Jakob" Böhme

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  Stephan Grossmann

  Dr. Grimm

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  Sergej Moya

  Clemens Olmützer

Reviews

Critics have offered mixed to moderate praise for Wolfsland – Irrlichter. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.0/10, reflecting an average audience reception. Some reviewers have applauded the movie's atmospheric tension and strong lead performance by Götz Schubert. For example, a review from KinoZeit noted that the "bleak yet captivating setting contributes significantly to the film's brooding suspense," and praised its "realistic depiction of procedural elements." However, other critics have pointed to a predictable plot and occasional pacing issues. Filmstarts rated the movie as "solid but not exceptional," highlighting that while "the film delivers on mood and character, the narrative lacks some originality." Audience feedback on forums suggests appreciation for the gritty portrayal of crime in Eastern Germany, but some viewers felt the storyline could have been developed with more twists to increase engagement. Overall, Wolfsland – Irrlichter is regarded as a respectable entry in the German crime genre, notable for its performances and setting, though it does not significantly reinvent the procedural thriller format.