Marriage by Abduction

Luisa is from Buenos Aires and Fred from rural Germany. In their small flat in Berlin they have created their own universe and invented a third language in which they understand each other silently across language barriers. Bureaucratic immigration constraints and Luisa’s deepening insecurity, moves Fred to propose. The pragmatic decision to marry comes at a price. The expectations on their relationship changes as they are increasingly confronted with social norms. The never wanted Argentinean white wedding dress is placed in Luisa’s car like a coffin. In the German countryside, Luisa and Fred are accommodated in the vacant house of his grandparents. In the supposed retreat, visions of the future are projected, which Luisa fends off and Fred begins to fantasize. Luisa sees their original plans for the future shift. Cultural differences become contentious as both families lovingly interfere in the wedding planning. Luisa and Fred navigate a labyrinth of languages and misunderstandings. At their wedding, they no longer know what they want or where they belong. In the maelstrom of the night, Luisa loses her sovereignty and her connection with Fred. The German tradition of bride theft turns their relationship upside down. In the dawn lies the hope of a confrontation with their roles.