Der Schimmelreiter

Set in North Friesland, this drama follows Hauke Haien, who takes over as director of coastal protection and dyke count after his father-in-law passes away. Although Hauke is a skilled visionary who understands nature, his antisocial personality makes it difficult for him to gain the trust of his community. While his wife, Elke, helps him communicate his concerns regarding climate change, the village initially dismisses his warnings. Conflict arises when the true extent of Hauke's radical plans is revealed, leading to public anger and psychological pressure that leave him exhausted as a disaster looms.

The film was directed by Franziska Meletzky, following her 2025 work Ein ganz großes Ding. The cast features Max Hubacher in the lead role of Hauke Haien, alongside Olga von Luckwald as Elke Haien, Joshua Jagersberger, Christoph Glaubacker, Emanuel Fellmer, and Josephine Bloéb. Produced in Germany by companies including ZDF, ARTE, Network Movie, and Gretchenfilm, the project was made with a budget of 2 million USD. The production involved a credited crew of 104 people and a screenplay written by Léonie-Claire Breinersdorfer.