DAS TRIO
Reviewed by Harvey Karten, Ph.D. Attitude Films Director: Hermine Huntgeburth Writer: Hermine Huntgeburth, Horst Sczerba, Volker Einrauch Cast: Gotz George, Christian Redl, Jeanette Hain, Felix Eitner
It's easy to see why Gotz George is one of Germany's most popular actors, though he is not well known in the U.S. With his blazing eyes and ruggedly handsome face, this sixty- year-old might be equated with America's Robert Redford or Warren Beatty, his expressions somehow reminding one of Peter O'Toole. In "The Trio," or "Das Trio" as the film is called in the country of its production, George plays Zobel, a homosexual pickpocket with the free-and-easy life style that such a profession would evoke, except for one thing. He is envious of one younger man, Rodolf (Felix Eitner), whom he has taken in as a partner in both trade and bed, but who has eyes for Lizzie (Jeanette Hain)--who happens to be Zobel's daughter. If this sounds like a movie with the makings of a farce, a comedy, and a buddy movie, you'd be on the money. For a potential audience who may still not be aware that the Germans can produce light and airy romps, this film could set them straight (so to speak).
The story opens on a carnival visited by Zobel, his daughter by a heterosexual union, Lizzie, and Zobel's lover, Karl (Christian Redl). When a young thief, Rodolf, runs off with Karl's purse, he is caught by the victims and humiliated by being forced to strip to the waist. Later, when the aging Karl is hit by a car and near death, Lizzie finds out where Rodolf lives and persuades him to join their merry group by taking Karl's place. After a crash course in pickpocketing, the bisexual Rodolf proves to have a light hand and also an eye for both of his partners. The trio travel through parts of Germany first via their mobile home, ultimately by transcontinental train, successfully plying their trade until both Lizzie and Zobel discover that they are being two-timed and plot a course of action that alters their lives forever.
Given the elements of farce, camaraderie, sentimental drama and some basic looks at the new, prosperous and fun- loving Germany, "The Trio" should prove to be an easy crossover that could charm viewers of various carnal choices. One riotous scene takes place in the trailer as Zobel showers with Rodolf, and Lizzie, about to catch them in the act, must be persuaded to leave the quarters. The scene quickly reverses course: Lizzie and Rodolf then have to pretend to Zobel that nothing is going on between them. The film is peppered with various incidents, giving the audience tips on how to lift wallets and purses.
The screenwriters, who include director Hermine Huntgeburth, seem to have an obsession about age. Twice during the comedy, the performers refer to bystanders as "the old lady." The balding Karl, who wears a silly rug, is fearful of being replaced by a younger man. And the aging Zobel is accused by his daughter Lizzie of harboring jealous and vindictive thoughts because he fears he will no longer be able to attract sexual partners. "The Trio" has a cute coda, which promises that the art of pickpocketing will be passed on to future generations.
Not Rated. Running Time: 97 minutes. (C) 1998 Harvey Karten
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