Chiara Fleischhacker writes and directs Vena, a German drama about Jenny, a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy while dependent on crystal meth. Emma Nova plays Jenny, whose relationship with Bolle, played by Paul Wollin, is also shaped by addiction. When the youth welfare authorities learn of the pregnancy, family midwife Marla, played by Friederike Becht, is assigned to support her.
Fleischhacker's directing debut impresses through its authentic treatment of the difficulties facing an expectant mother with an addiction. The film does not turn Jenny's situation into an abstract social problem. It remains close to the person living through it.
Nova gives an outstanding performance, making Jenny's internal conflict and struggle palpable. Wollin and Becht provide strong support, helping the relationships carry the film's emotional depth rather than leaving everything to its central performance.
Lisa Jilg's camera captures the dark atmosphere and Jenny's inner conflicts. Peter Albrecht's music reinforces the emotional intensity, while Tobias Wieduwilt's editing supports a coherent narrative and its dramatic progression. These elements work together rather than competing to make the subject appear more important.
Vena is a powerful drama distinguished by the authenticity of its portrayal and the strength of its cast. It offers an affecting view of addiction and motherhood, leaving a lasting impression. The difficult material is not a substitute for good filmmaking here. The filmmaking gives that material its force.