Heidelberg isn’t so small, but it isn’t New York, which is there 13 year old Morris move away from. His father is a local soccer coach and he’s finding it easier to integrate. It’s harder for Morris whose skin color and larger frame make him stand out. Charming tutor Inka is supposed to teach him German but learning the language alone doesn’t help much. Then he meets Katrin and his world turns upside down.
Director Chad Hartigan is actually from Cyprus and has an Irish father and moved to the US, his mother’s home country, as a teenager. He knows what it’s like to be the new guy in town who needs to find his place. His third feature, shot in Heidelberg with US actors, fits the tone of a teen who feels like an outsider. The situational comedy works perfectly in the interactions between newcomer Markees Christmas and established comedian Craig Robinson and bears a hint of melancholy. But before things get too somber the only two “brothers in Heidelberg” get busy with their next hip hop battle. MORRIS FROM AMERICA is a lovable film with dedicated actors that is told in a calm and collected way. It won prizes for its screenplay and acting at this years’ Sundance Festival.

Lars Tunçay

Translation: Elinor Lewy