Balloon

In the summer of 1979, the Strelzyk and Wetzel families start discussing a way out of the GDR by building a hot-air balloon. They study wind conditions and safety, weighing the risks of such a daring escape. The plan centers on crossing the border to West Germany using a home-made craft.

When wind conditions seem ideal, Günter Wetzel decides the plan is too risky and halts the attempt. He worries about the safety of eight people and the complications of a volatile voyage. The family absorbs his caution but keeps the dream alive for later.

With Günter's hesitation, Doris and Peter Strelzyk take the lead and resolve to try escaping with their two sons. Their teenage son Frank even writes a farewell letter to Klara Baumann, signaling the emotional stakes. They move to pack the balloon and head toward the forest for a first launch.

The Strelzyks load the balloon and gear into their trailer, drive into the forest, and ascend while hidden in the clouds. A mechanical fault causes the gas pipes to freeze and clog, forcing the balloon to descend near the border. They return to the car, destroy evidence, and Frank retrieves the letter to Klara.

The abandoned balloon is found, and Lieutenant Colonel Seidel commands a large investigation. He interrogates border guards, searches for clues, and narrows the circle of possible suspects tied to the escape plan. The case becomes a matter of state embarrassment for the regime.

Doris worries about being linked to the escape as the investigation tightens, especially after she loses her personalized medication in the forest. The missing pills become a crucial clue for investigators. The families live under constant threat during the inquiry.

The families travel to East Berlin hoping to gain exit assistance, but the attempt fails. They realize a direct escape route remains blocked and must regroup. The setback increases the urgency to try again with a second balloon.

Peter convinces Günter to try again, but they must source materials discreetly, buying small quantities of fabric in different cities. Günter works at night at the sewing machine, and the work is moved to the Strelzyks' cellar to avoid neighbors' noise.

Frank learns that Klara's father Erik must visit the pharmacy because someone is wanted, and that the wind is blowing south—conditions favorable for the escape. The families prepare to attempt the launch that same night.

The second launch is not as perfect as the first, and the gas runs out after about half an hour. The balloon lands in a forest, and at first, it is unclear whether they have crossed the border. They scout the area and soon encounter a police patrol car.

Peter and Günter explore the landing site and meet a police patrol car. The officers inform them they are in Upper Franconia, confirming the crossing in the end and bringing a mix of relief and joy to the families. The Stasi's pursuit grows colder, but the official response lingers.

Lieutenant Colonel Seidel and his superior must explain themselves to Stasi chief Erich Mielke, and Erik Baumann is interrogated by the Stasi. The authorities reassess how the escape happened and what was exposed to the regime. The political heat lingers long after the air was crossed.

A decade after the escape, Doris and Peter Strelzyk watch Hans-Dietrich Genscher's Prague embassy announcement on television. They learn that GDR citizens gathered there are allowed to leave, a turning point that echoes beyond their personal story. The scene marks the regime's end and a future beyond the wall.