A Friendship in Vienna

The story unfolds in 1938 Vienna, during the days before and during the Anschluss when Austria is absorbed into Nazi Germany. The period is defined by aggressive propaganda, rapid legal discrimination against Jews, and the tightening grip of authoritarian rule. Families scramble for visas and safety as they confront escalating persecution and the threat of arrest.

Vienna, Austria is the film's central setting, a city rich in history and culture. The large cathedral and historic streets provide a backdrop for secret meetings and growing danger. In 1938, Vienna becomes a focal point of Nazi influence, with anti-Jewish laws reshaping daily life and forcing families to choose between safety and loyalty.

🤝 Friendship

A fragile yet powerful friendship crosses social and religious divides at great personal risk. Lise and Inge meet in secret and support each other despite family opposition and a hostile environment. The theme centers on loyalty, trust, and the resilience of human connection under oppression.

🕎 Discrimination

The film traces the daily impact of antisemitic laws, including expulsion from schools, job losses, and public humiliation. Jewish families are isolated as society enforces Aryan norms and punishes perceived transgressions. The narrative shows how prejudice permeates institutions and personal interactions alike.

🚂 Escape

Visas, baptisms, and clandestine plans become tools for survival as the characters seek to leave Austria. The pursuit of safety involves bureaucratic hurdles, moral compromises, and the ever-present risk of capture. The escape arc highlights courage and the urgency of seeking a safer future.