“Rotzbub” Film Discussion Draws Crowd, Director Reveals Years-Long Production Struggle
Stegen, Germany – December 1, 2025, 1:07 PM – A lively discussion surrounding the animated film “Rotzbub” captivated a full house at the Groundlift Studio in Stegen today, offering a rare glimpse into the challenging and ultimately rewarding journey of bringing a deeply personal story to the screen. The event, part of the “Humor and Film” series hosted by the Munich-based Forum Humor and Comic Art e. V., featured director Marcus H. Rosenmüller and producer Ernst Geyer, who shared insights into the film’s decade-spanning creation.
From Caricatures to Cinema: The Birth of “Rotzbub”
Rosenmüller, known for his live-action work, confessed to initially feeling out of his depth when approached with the animation project. “I knew nothing about animation,” he admitted with a laugh, crediting Geyer with convincing him to take the leap. The film, based on the caricatures of Austrian illustrator Manfred Deix, proved to be a uniquely demanding undertaking. Unlike traditional filmmaking, Rosenmüller explained, “everything had to be made in-house – from the plate to the salami, every character and every detail.”
The process involved a fascinating evolution from 2D sketches to fully realized 3D characters, and a meticulous effort to construct the fictional Austrian village of Siegheilkirchen. Geyer highlighted the long gestation period, tracing the project’s origins back to 2002 and a script developed in close collaboration with Deix, who sadly passed away in 2016 before seeing the finished film. “An animated film of this size is created piece by piece,” Geyer explained, “with each individual sound being added later. Only then does the film begin to come to life.” The dedication of the team was so profound that the credits even include “production babies” – children born to crew members during the film’s lengthy development.
A Satirical Mirror to Society: The Story Behind the Film
“Rotzbub” isn’t simply a charming animated tale; it’s a biting satire set in 1967 Austria, a village steeped in conservatism and shadowed by its Nazi past. The story follows a young boy with a talent for drawing who finds solace in his art amidst bigotry and hypocrisy. When a Roma group arrives, tensions escalate, but the boy’s burgeoning romance with Mariolina offers a glimmer of hope. The film is, in essence, a cinematic autobiography of Manfred Deix, reflecting his sharp, uncompromising, and often humorous perspective on society. Mariolina is, in fact, a representation of Deix’s wife, Mariatta.
Challenges and Triumphs: From Production to Reception
Despite its critical acclaim and success at the prestigious French animation festival, “Rotzbub” faced hurdles. Rosenmüller openly expressed disappointment with the limited support from Bayerischer Rundfunk. Furthermore, a summer release proved unfavorable, as warm weather kept audiences away from cinemas. However, the film resonated strongly in Austria and Southern Germany, proving its powerful message and unique artistic style. Rosenmüller also noted how the intensive work on “Rotzbub” directly influenced his approach to the new Pumuckl series, demonstrating the lasting impact of the project.
The audience at the Groundlift Studio responded enthusiastically, with laughter echoing throughout the screening and discussion. Rosenmüller, pressed for time, promised a return visit, leaving attendees eager for further insights into his work and the world of “Rotzbub.”
The story of “Rotzbub” is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of artistic vision, and the enduring relevance of satire in confronting societal issues. It’s a film that stays with you, prompting reflection long after the credits roll. For those interested in independent animation, Bavarian cinema, or the legacy of Manfred Deix, “Rotzbub” is a must-see. Stay tuned to archyde.com for more breaking news and in-depth coverage of the arts and culture scene.
