Pingpong is a German coming-of-age film that explores themes of family, grief, and relationships. The story follows the lives of a middle-class family consisting of parents, a teenage daughter, and a younger son. Their lives are turned upside down with the arrival of Paul, a distant relative who has just lost his father to suicide.
Paul is a troubled young man who is struggling to cope with the loss of his father and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. He seeks affection and support from his family, but his actions and behavior create tension and conflict in the household. The arrival of Paul exposes the cracks and fissures in the family, revealing hidden secrets, unresolved issues, and long-held resentments.
As the family tries to navigate through this difficult period, they are forced to confront their own traumas and confront the painful truths that they have been avoiding. The film is a poignant portrayal of grief and loss and the impact it has on one's relationships and identity.
Pingpong is directed by Matthias Luthardt and features an ensemble cast that delivers powerful and nuanced performances. It is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss or struggled with family dynamics.