Susis Schicht Poster

Susis Schicht 1979

7 min📅 1979-07-01

Step into the gritty yet essential world of early recycling in communist East Germany with *Susis Schicht* (1979), a short documentary by Petra Tschörtner that offers a rare glimpse into the labor behind waste paper collection.

Director: Petra Tschörtner

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Susis Schicht (1979) about?

*Susis Schicht* follows Susi as she works in a vast waste paper depot, sorting and bundling paper for recycling in 1970s East Germany. The film documents the repetitive yet vital labor behind the country's recycling efforts, offering a raw look at sustainability in action. It's a short but powerful glimpse into daily life and industrial practices of the era.

Who directed Susis Schicht?

Susis Schicht was directed by Petra Tschörtner, a filmmaker known for her documentary work in East Germany.

Who stars in Susis Schicht?

The main focus of Susis Schicht is Susi, the worker portrayed in the depot, with no other named cast members listed in the available records.

Is Susis Schicht (1979) worth watching?

Given its short runtime and historical significance, *Susis Schicht* is a fascinating watch for fans of East German cinema or documentary films about labor. While it may not have widespread acclaim, its authenticity and themes make it a compelling piece for niche audiences.

How long is Susis Schicht?

Susis Schicht has a runtime of 7 minutes.

About Susis Schicht (1979) — A Gritty East German Documentary on Recycling Labor

Step into the gritty yet essential world of early recycling in communist East Germany with *Susis Schicht* (1979), a short documentary by Petra Tschörtner that offers a rare glimpse into the labor behind waste paper collection. Set in a sprawling depot where Susi diligently sorts and bundles paper for recycling, the film captures the rhythmic monotony and quiet dignity of manual labor in a system built on resourcefulness. Through stark visuals and unfiltered realism, Tschörtner paints a portrait of resilience, framing the depot as both a workplace and a metaphor for sustainability long before the term became mainstream. The atmosphere is one of quiet determination, where every bundled stack of paper feels like a small victory against waste.

*Susis Schicht* (1979) stands out as a time capsule of industrial-era recycling, seamlessly blending documentary authenticity with social commentary. Though it runs just seven minutes, the film's impact lingers, offering a snapshot of daily life in East Germany while highlighting themes of environmental responsibility and the human cost of progress. Whether you're a history buff or a documentary enthusiast, this short film is a compelling watch that leaves you pondering the unsung heroes behind the recycling efforts we often take for granted.