Germany 2007, German with English subtitles, 35mm, 85 min
Director: Ann-Kristin Reyels
Screenplay : Marek Helsner, Ann-Kristin Reyels
Cinematography: Florian Foest
Cast: Constantin von Jascheroff, Josef Hader, Luise Berndt, Sven Lehmann, Judith Engel, Ulrike Krumbiegel, Marek Harloff
Print Source: Credofilm GmbH
Hounds is a gently observed story of closeness and distance which examines the fragile structures of families. After his parents divorce, Lars moves from the city to a farm to live with his father Henrik. As they are not from the area, the two of them live in isolation, and since Lars barely communicates with his father, his only emotional intimacy is with his two dogs. But things change when Lars meets Marie, who is deaf. They quickly develop a friendship which tumbles forward into love and together they roam the beautiful winter countryside. Marie's father, however, is unhappy with the union.
When Henrik's sister-in-law, with whom he has been having an affair, arrives at the farm followed by Lars's mother with her own lover in tow, things get eventful.
This is charming coming of age-story that intersects with that of an awkward dysfunctional family comedy. With a tiny budget, young director Ann-Kristin Reyels has produced a small, sublime gem.
The Cape Winelands will again at the 2012 edition of this festival present a series of Masterclasses and workshops. These events are sponsored by the City of Cape Town and Wesgro.
Winner of the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes festival, Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s new film has the magic of a fairy tale and the simplicity of a folk tale. Wonderfully immersive, slow and dreamy, 
