Hallo Spencer – Der Film returns to the puppet world through a story about memory, creative work and the threat of losing a home. Its warmth does not depend entirely on viewers recognizing the original series.
Jakob Sesam lives with his puppets in an old disco long after the end of their television career. When the building is threatened, they decide to make a film in an attempt to save it. The fictional creator's situation becomes an affectionate homage to the work behind Hallo Spencer.
Rainer Bock gives Jakob a compelling mixture of melancholy and determination. Victoria Trauttmansdorff, Margarita Broich and Jens Harzer strengthen the supporting cast. The performances make the attachment to this unusual household understandable.
Timo Schierhorn connects nostalgia with a new filmic approach. Jutta Pohlmann's camera captures both the worn building and the vitality of the puppets, while Albrecht Schrader's music supports the emotion.
The puppets actively participate in responding to their problem, which gives the story a useful dynamic. Questions about the changing media world and the difficulties facing creative people emerge alongside the humor.
For me, this is a successful combination of affection, comedy and substance. The carefully handled puppet world and Bock's performance make it worth seeing for returning fans and for viewers discovering its appeal through the film.