Your Child, That Unknown Creature 1970
Werner M. Lenz's 1970 documentary *Your Child, That Unknown Creature* delivers a bold, unflinching look at sex education through the lens of the Kolle family's candid conversations.
Director: Werner M. Lenz
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Your Child, That Unknown Creature (1970) about?
This 1970 documentary follows the Kolle family as they openly discuss sex, puberty, and self-exploration in front of the camera. Directed by Werner M. Lenz, the film tackles taboo topics like masturbation and the Oedipal complex while advocating for honest, trauma-free communication between parents and children.
Who directed Your Child, That Unknown Creature?
The film was directed by Werner M. Lenz, a German filmmaker known for his work in documentary and social commentary during the late 20th century.
Who stars in Your Child, That Unknown Creature?
The documentary features the entire Kolle family—Wolf-Michael Hoffmann, Martin Jente, Cornelia Kolle, Oswalt Kolle, Marlies Kolle, and Nino Kolle—alongside candid discussions led by Oswald Kolle.
Is Your Child, That Unknown Creature (1970) worth watching?
As a rare 1970s sex education film, it's a fascinating historical document that blends education with intimate family conversations. While its frank approach may feel dated to modern audiences, its progressive themes and unfiltered honesty make it a compelling watch for those interested in the evolution of sexual discourse in cinema.
How long is Your Child, That Unknown Creature?
The runtime is 93 minutes.
About Your Child, That Unknown Creature (1970) — A Groundbreaking 1970s Sex Education Documentary
Werner M. Lenz's 1970 documentary *Your Child, That Unknown Creature* delivers a bold, unflinching look at sex education through the lens of the Kolle family's candid conversations. This follow-up to Oswald Kolle's influential series strips away taboos as the entire family—parents and their three children—discuss puberty, intimacy, and self-exploration with unfiltered honesty. The film blends naturalistic family dynamics with Sigmund Freud-inspired themes, exploring how children navigate emerging desires while parents grapple with guidance that balances openness and sensitivity. Shot in a raw, conversational style, it captures the awkwardness and curiosity of adolescence without moral judgment, making it a fascinating time capsule of 1970s progressive attitudes toward sexuality.
A product of its era, the documentary challenges conventional wisdom by advocating for masturbation as a healthy outlet for children—unless psychological risks demand a gentler approach. The Oedipal complex is touched upon, but the film deliberately avoids hard-and-fast rules, emphasizing individualized understanding. With its unscripted nudity and frank discussions, *Your Child, That Unknown Creature* remains a provocative artifact of sex education cinema, offering both historical insight and a glimpse into how far—or how little—attitudes have evolved.