Rival 2021
"His mother belongs to him. Only to him."
In *Rival (2021)*, director Marcus Lenz crafts a poignant drama that dives into the fragile bonds of family and belonging. The story follows Roman, a young boy who moves from Ukraine to Germany with his mother Oksana as she seeks work under precarious conditions.
Director: Marcus Lenz
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rival (2021) about?
*Rival (2021)* follows young Roman and his mother Oksana as they navigate life in Germany after moving from Ukraine. Struggling with Oksana's illegal work and their fragile living situation with Gert, an elderly widower, Roman begins to see Gert as a rival for his mother's affection. The film captures the emotional tension of their fragile new family dynamic.
Who directed Rival?
Rival was directed by Marcus Lenz, a filmmaker known for his sensitive handling of family dramas and human relationships.
Who stars in Rival?
The cast features Yelizar Nazarenko as Roman, Maria Bruni as Oksana, Udo Samel as Gert, Nina Kastorf, Jule Böwe, and Roman Kanonik.
Is Rival (2021) worth watching?
*Rival (2021)* is a quietly powerful drama that shines in its emotional depth and restrained storytelling. While it may not offer high-energy thrills, its themes of displacement and familial rivalry make it a thoughtful, poignant watch for drama enthusiasts.
How long is Rival?
Rival has a runtime of 96 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Rival (2021) — A Heartfelt Drama of Family, Rivalry, and Belonging
In *Rival (2021)*, director Marcus Lenz crafts a poignant drama that dives into the fragile bonds of family and belonging. The story follows Roman, a young boy who moves from Ukraine to Germany with his mother Oksana as she seeks work under precarious conditions. Struggling to adjust to their new life, Roman finds himself in a quiet but intense rivalry with Gert, an elderly widower who shares their home and tries to earn the boy's trust. At its core, the film explores themes of isolation, parental devotion, and the quiet conflicts that arise when new relationships challenge old loyalties. With a restrained yet emotionally charged atmosphere, *Rival (2021)* paints a moving portrait of displacement and the unspoken struggles that shape a child's world.
Starring Yelizar Nazarenko as Roman and Maria Bruni as Oksana, the film weaves a tender yet tense narrative that lingers long after the credits roll. The performances, coupled with Lenz's sensitive direction, create a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt caught between competing emotions or bonds. It's a tale about love's many forms—and the silent rivalries that test their strength.