Die Scheinheiligen 2001
In the quaint Bavarian village of Daxenbrunn, a roadside diner is supposed to save the town's dwindling fortunes—but the plan soon takes a turn into absurdity and heartfelt chaos.
Director: Thomas Kronthaler
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Die Scheinheiligen (2001) about?
*Die Scheinheiligen* follows a mayor and his friend who bet everything on a highway diner to revive their struggling town. But when local landowners refuse to sell, their grand plan spirals into a hilarious and chaotic battle of wits. The film explores themes of ambition, tradition, and the unintended consequences of so-called "progress."
Who directed Die Scheinheiligen?
The film was directed by Thomas Kronthaler, known for his work in German-language comedies and dramas that blend social commentary with humor.
Who stars in Die Scheinheiligen?
The cast includes Maria Singer, Johannes Demmel, Michael Emina, Andreas Lechner, and Wolfgang Fischer in key roles.
Is Die Scheinheiligen (2001) worth watching?
With its sharp script and engaging performances, *Die Scheinheiligen* delivers a satisfying mix of laughs and heart. While it flew under the radar, its themes of greed and community resonate—making it a solid pick for fans of European indie films. The 80-minute runtime keeps it tight and enjoyable.
How long is Die Scheinheiligen?
The runtime of *Die Scheinheiligen* is 80 minutes.
About Die Scheinheiligen (2001) — A sharp Bavarian comedy-drama about greed and small-town dreams
In the quaint Bavarian village of Daxenbrunn, a roadside diner is supposed to save the town's dwindling fortunes—but the plan soon takes a turn into absurdity and heartfelt chaos. Director Thomas Kronthaler's *Die Scheinheiligen* (2001) blends sharp German comedy with piercing social satire, painting a vivid portrait of small-town life where ambition clashes with tradition. The story follows Mayor Matthias and his crony, District Administrator Dr. Seigis, as they push a highway grill project that threatens to uproot the community's stubborn holdouts. Watch as good intentions curdle into greed, and what starts as a financial lifeline becomes a battle over identity, greed, and the absurd lengths people go to chase progress.
Set against the rolling hills near Salzburg, the film captures the gritty realism of rural Bavaria with a dash of dark humor. Themes of gentrification, local politics, and the illusion of prosperity collide in this understated yet biting comedy-drama. With its tight 80-minute runtime, *Die Scheinheiligen* keeps the tone brisk, balancing laughs with moments of genuine pathos—making it a gem for fans of offbeat European cinema.