71 Fragments of a Chronology of Chance

The film opens with impactful intertitles that describe a horrific mass killing, setting a grim tone for the unfolding narrative. This shocking event serves as a backdrop for the stories that follow, highlighting the intertwined fates of various characters in Vienna.

A young Romanian boy bravely decides to flee his home country, crossing the border under the cover of night. His journey is treacherous as he navigates a muddy swamp and hides within a truck to reach Vienna, showcasing his desperate will to find safety and a new life.

Upon arriving in Vienna, the Romanian boy finds himself homeless and must beg to survive on the bustling streets. His situation highlights the harsh realities faced by many who seek refuge in a foreign land, emphasizing his vulnerability and resilience.

Meanwhile, a security worker goes about his routine bank pickups, but his home life is fraught with tension. Arguments with his wife increase his stress, and he seeks solace in prayer, illustrating the personal struggles that individuals face amid their daily lives.

In another part of the city, a young man engages in criminal activities, specifically stealing weapons from a military armory. This subplot delves into the active underbelly of urban life, showing how some individuals resort to crime for survival or excitement.

A college student spends time with friends playing games that involve betting against one another, adding a layer of camaraderie mixed with risk. During one round, he stakes his watch against a stolen pistol, demonstrating both the reckless youth culture and the thrill of danger among friends.

A retired man fills his days mostly watching television, feeling the weight of loneliness as he attempts to engage with his daughter. She is often too distracted with her own life, highlighting the isolation that can come with aging and familial disconnect.

A married couple longs to adopt a young girl, showcasing their challenges and the hope they carry. Their subplot touches on the themes of family, desire, and the obstacles they face in the pursuit of parenthood amid social unrest.

As the Romanian boy's plight gains media attention, he is taken in by the couple looking to adopt him. This shift in his fortune represents a glimmer of hope amid despair and signifies the power of compassion and societal awareness.

On an unfortunate day, the wife of the adopting couple runs errands and leaves the boy in the car outside the bank. Coincidentally, the retired man, visiting the bank to see his daughter, is pulled into the path of a tragic turn of events about to unfold.

Meanwhile, the college student stops for gas and finds himself frustrated by an out-of-order ATM that leaves him low on cash. His impatience grows as he heads into a crowded bank, where the tension of the environment begins to escalate.

After a heated confrontation with another customer in the bank, the college student's stress boils over. Overcome with anger and desperation, he exits to retrieve a gun from his car, marking a pivotal decision that will have catastrophic consequences.

In a heartbreaking chain of events, the college student returns to the bank and opens fire on the patrons, creating chaos and terror. This eruption of violence results in a devastating impact on the lives of all involved, underscoring the tragic consequences of anger and isolation.

Amidst the shooting chaos, the situation culminates in a harrowing conclusion when the college student takes his own life. This act serves as a tragic commentary on the depth of despair that can engulf individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the witnesses and those affected.