The Little Chaos Poster

The Little Chaos 1966

★ 6.330 votes9 min📅 1966-12-02

In Rainer Werner Fassbinder's early short film *The Little Chaos* (1966), three hapless protagonists—Theo, Marite, and Franz—find themselves struggling to make ends meet through door-to-door magazine sales.

Director: Rainer Werner Fassbinder

Cast

Christoph Roser
Theo
Marite Greiselis
Marite
Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Franz
Greta Rehfeld
Lilo Pempeit
Lilo Pempeit
Frau Eder (uncredited)
Susanne Schimkus
(uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *The Little Chaos* (1966) about?

This 1966 short follows Theo, Marite, and Franz as they abandon selling magazines to attempt a clumsy robbery, only to face failure at every turn. Their misadventures highlight the absurdity of their situation in Fassbinder's darkly humorous style.

Who directed *The Little Chaos*?

Rainer Werner Fassbinder, the influential German filmmaker known for his bold storytelling and social critiques, directed *The Little Chaos* in 1966.

Who stars in *The Little Chaos*?

The film stars Christoph Roser, Marite Greiselis, and Rainer Werner Fassbinder himself, alongside Greta Rehfeld and Lilo Pempeit.

Is *The Little Chaos* (1966) worth watching?

As an early Fassbinder work, *The Little Chaos* is a fascinating snapshot of his evolving style, though its 9-minute runtime and rough production might not appeal to everyone. Fans of short films or experimental cinema will find it intriguing.

How long is *The Little Chaos*?

The Little Chaos runs for 9 minutes.

About The Little Chaos (1966) — Fassbinder's Early Comedy-Crime Short Film

In Rainer Werner Fassbinder's early short film *The Little Chaos* (1966), three hapless protagonists—Theo, Marite, and Franz—find themselves struggling to make ends meet through door-to-door magazine sales. Frustrated by their lack of success, they impulsively turn to petty crime, setting the stage for a darkly comedic tale of misguided ambition and botched heists.

Fassbinder, then a rising talent in German cinema, infuses the 9-minute runtime with his signature blend of raw energy and social commentary, exploring themes of desperation and futility. Shot in black-and-white, the film captures a gritty, low-budget atmosphere while hinting at the auteur's later, more ambitious works. Whether you're a Fassbinder fan or a connoisseur of offbeat comedy-crime hybrids, *The Little Chaos* offers a concise yet compelling glimpse into the director's formative style.