Two To One presents a unique storyline that truly exemplifies that ‘truth can be stranger than fiction,’ as it’s based on actual events. After the Berlin Wall came down, a communist family stumbles upon a bunker packed with cash that’s about to lose its value. With their neighbors’ help, they rush to dive into the capitalist scene with flair.

In 1990, during the pivotal period of German reunification, the film highlights the lives of working-class people in Halberstadt, centering around a couple, Maren (Sandra Hüller) and Robert (Max Riemelt). I have to admit that the main appeal here is Hüller. This is her first performance I’ve seen after her Oscar-nominated turn in Anatomy Of A Fall.

As East Germany blends with the West, the socialist nation is shifting into a capitalist area, and this change is hitting the locals hard financially. Many are out of work and finding it tough to get by, while some have headed west in search of a brighter future. Maren and Robert are living in a rundown apartment that looks like it was made for industrial workers’ families. One day, Maren’s ex, Volker (Ronald Zehrfeld, who reminds me of Russell Crowe at times), comes back from Hungary, creating a bit of an awkward vibe among the three. Directed and written by Natja Brunckhorst, the film maintains a lighthearted and even goofy tone accompanied by a catchy indie soundtrack, despite the serious challenges the characters are dealing with.

The film takes its time before the crew discovers a massive hoard of East German cash, but the excitement really kicks in during those moments. It so happens that Rob’s uncle Markowski (Peter Kurth) works in the military bunker, and he showed them a secret way in. It’s wild how stacks of cash are just there, left to rot, ripe for the picking, so they quickly scoop up as much as they can. Getting into the bunker is a piece of cake, and even when security catches on, there’s this odd absence of tension thanks to the playful vibe.

There is a subplot involving Maren and Volker’s past in regards to Maren’s daughter that doesn’t really add much to the drama. I was more affected by the elderly lady who’s in charge of um, a money laundering scheme (literally!). The heart of the story reveals how a community rooted in socialist ideals responds when unexpected wealth comes their way. They feel a solidarity with fellow working-class folks in their building, but naturally, as a human being, there’s always that temptation of greed seeping in. The way things unfold is a bit discombobulating at times, especially as it took me some time to actually grasp just what in the world is going on.

At nearly two hours long, this heist dramedy can drag a bit, but the committed cast keeps it engaging. Hüller is great to watch in an understated role, and it’s cool to see Zehrfeld’s comic chops, as I’ve only seen him in a serious role in Christian Petzold’s Phoenix.

I picked up some insights into German history during a time of major change. The tale of regular families facing tough times and stepping up to tackle unusual challenges feels relevant, especially since the US is also going through a phase of so much uncertainty right now.

Two To One is currently in cinemas in the UK and Ireland

Thoughts on this movie? Let’s hear it!

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