“Then life Happens” Delivers a Bleak Portrait of Marital Decay and Accidental Tragedy
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A new German film, releasing November 27, 2025, titled “Then Life Happens,” offers a stark and ultimately unsatisfying exploration of a fractured marriage and the devastating consequences of a tragic accident. Directed and written by Neele Vollmar, the film stars Ulrich Tukur and Anke Engelke as a couple grappling with years of resentment and a life-altering event.
A relationship Defined by Silence and regret
The film centers on Hans and Rita, a couple in their early to mid-60s living in a small German town.Their relationship is characterized by a profound sense of disconnection.According to one critic, it’s “rare to meet such a sad, depressed couple” on screen, and the film doesn’t shy away from portraying the weight of their unhappiness. Hans, recently retired, is depicted as withdrawn, while Rita, who works intermittently as an elderly care provider, is consumed by bitterness.
The source of this animosity stems from Hans’ past infidelity – a relationship with a colleague during his time as a school principal. Though he ended the affair to preserve his marriage, Rita has never forgiven him. Their son, Tom, who lives in another city and rarely visits, is unable to bridge the gap between them, contributing to the “leaden juxtaposition” of their daily lives.
A Tragic Turn and Its unflinching Aftermath
The narrative takes a dramatic turn with a fatal traffic accident.In poor weather conditions, Rita accidentally strikes and kills a cyclist. the film notably avoids the tropes of a typical crime thriller. There is no attempt to cover up the incident, no hit-and-run, and despite a police inquiry, Hans and Rita – respected members of their community – are not incarcerated.
However, the legal outcome does little to alleviate the emotional toll. While Hans displays sympathy, Rita is overwhelmed by despair, despite being found not guilty of negligence. The film emphasizes the sheer misfortune of the event, highlighting the devastating impact on all involved.
A Lack of Resolution and a Critical Reception
“Then Life Happens” distinguishes itself by its refusal to offer a conventional resolution. There is no cathartic reconciliation between Hans and Rita, and the film concludes on a tragically mundane note. As one observer noted, “there is still no trace of ‘life’ in the entire film.” The script is criticized for its lack of compelling narrative development and its failure to spark genuine interest.
Despite the shortcomings of the screenplay, the performances of Tukur and Engelke are lauded. Tukur, widely considered one of Germany’s finest actors, delivers a convincing portrayal of quiet resignation.Engelke, known for her comedic roles, surprises with her nuanced depiction of inner turmoil, though the critic notes that even in her pain, she doesn’t necessarily evoke sympathy. Supporting actors Maria Hofstätter and Lukas Rüppel also deliver convincing performances in their respective roles.
Ultimately, the film is described as “a funeral bitterness” – a bleak and unsettling experience that offers little in the way of hope or insight. It serves as a cautionary example of how not to explore
