Der Fleck / Skill Issue

A hot summer's day in the provinces. 17-year-old Simon is actually supposed to be in PE class. But following an impulse, he leaves the school grounds and drifts through the heat. On his way home to his well-off neighbourhood, he bumps into an old friend who invites him to come to the river. But amongst the unknown young people sitting lethargically on the riverbank, playing, making out, chatting and smoking, Simon cannot escape his struggle with the world. Still, his acquaintance with Marie offers the prospect of a new experience. An unexpected incident and a trip to the nearest snack bar lead them through a green idyll whose quiet presence is permeated with traces of human activity. Hesitantly, they get closer.
Willy Hans’ feature film debut, shot on 16mm, is a story about growing up in the countryside. Moods, moments and gestures, sound design, music, and impressive nature images merge into a sensual cinematic experience.