Fabian: Going to the Dogs

In 1931 Berlin, Jakob Fabian, a disenchanted copywriter for a cigarette company, grapples with the boredom and monotony of his life. Despite his aspirations of becoming a writer, he feels trapped by his role and longs for something more fulfilling.

Jakob finds solace in his friendship with Stephan Labude, who is also searching for meaning in his life. Together, they indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Berlin, frequenting nightclubs and brothels while facing their haunting pasts.

One fateful night, Jakob meets Cornelia, a young aspiring actress, in an underground club. Their connection grows as they share moments of intimacy, but Cornelia hesitates, unsure about the viability of their relationship.

Jakob, Cornelia, and Stephan enjoy carefree afternoons together, including a memorable lakeside swim. This moment reveals Jakob’s insecurities, particularly about his inability to swim, showcasing the vulnerability that lingers beneath his surface.

As the economic situation in Germany deteriorates, Jakob faces the grim reality of being laid off from his job. This job loss further deepens his sense of despair, especially as Cornelia's career starts to ascend amidst the turmoil.

While Jakob struggles, Cornelia begins to thrive in her career, drawing the attention of Makart, an influential producer. This creates tension between her ambitions and her feelings for Jakob, who worries about the compromises she might have to make.

Just as Jakob tries to reconcile his feelings of jealousy and love, Cornelia mysteriously disappears the next morning. This loss leaves Jakob heartbroken, as he grapples with uncertainty about their future together.

Stephan Labude submits his academic thesis at Berlin University amidst rising political tensions in Germany. His communist views put him at risk, ultimately resulting in his arrest, causing concern to his friends.

After a distressing period, Labude's father secures his release through bail, allowing him to return to the city. The experience leaves a mark on both Labude and Jakob, highlighting the risks faced by intellectuals during this tense era.

Jakob unexpectedly runs into Cornelia at a film studio, where she auditions for a role. Her heartfelt performance demonstrates her longing for Jakob, sparking conflicting emotions within him as he witnesses her success.

When Jakob meets Cornelia at a café, their reunion is rife with tension. Accusations of infidelity surface during a heated exchange, yet the depth of their love leads them to ultimately reconcile and reaffirm their commitment.

After returning to Berlin, Jakob learns that Labude has gone missing, prompting a desperate search for his friend. This leads to a traumatic reunion at a nude art studio, where the effects of Labude's self-destructive behaviors become starkly apparent.

Jakob is devastated to discover that Labude has died by suicide, leaving behind a poignant note filled with loss and regret. Driven by grief, Jakob reflects on the haunting memories of his friend, adding to his overwhelming sense of despair.

Overcome by emotions, Jakob confronts the university chancellor but learns that Labude's thesis was approved, leading to further frustration. Ultimately, he decides to leave Berlin, seeking solace in Dresden as he processes his pain.

While reminiscing in Dresden, Jakob attempts to save a young boy from jumping off a bridge. In a tragic turn of fate, he is swept away by the current, making the ultimate sacrifice just as Cornelia awaits their planned reunion in Berlin.