Koschka

Bernd
Sahling

(1961, Germany)
 Selected filmography: The Blind Flyers (Die Blindgänger, 2004), Edna’s Day (Ednas Tag, 2009), Upside Down (Kopfüber, 2013), Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave (Ab morgen bin ich mutig, 2025)

Eight-year-old Jan lives with his father and, just before the holidays, finds a stray cat. While thinking up a name, he recalls his mother and calls her Koschka – the Russian word for “cat.” Soon, three kittens appear, and it’s clear this summer will be nothing like he expected. His dad insists the cat must go to a shelter when Jan shows signs of an allergy, but the boy refuses to give up and looks for ways to prevent it. With his friends Sami and Martha, he tries to care for the feline family, but it isn’t always easy. Looking after the kittens brings not only fun but also worries and new responsibilities. Jan must learn to help, be patient, and sometimes give things up. This warm, playful story for young audiences shows how one small encounter can transform an entire summer. Full of adorable kittens, the film offers joy, humor, and tender moments while telling a story of friendship, care, and responsibility.