The Audition | Das Vorspiel

Anna is a violin teacher at a high school for musicians in Berlin. At the school's annual entrance exam, and despite the opposition of the other teachers, she promotes the admission of Alexander, a boy in whom she detects a remarkable talent. Anna is determined to cultivate excellence in her pupil for an upcoming audition, and this shift away from her family does not go unnoticed by her husband Philippe and son Jonas. A rivalry for Anna's affection emerges, with a shocking resolution.

Nina Hoss is note-perfect in the solo role of Anna. The story, centering on an off-kilter rapport between a demanding music teacher and a gifted student, offers shades of Whiplash and The Piano Teacher, but filmmaker Ina Weisse puts her own, distinctive spin on the gripping drama.

Filmography: The Architect (2008).

Video talk with the director