System Crasher is a 2019 German drama film directed by Nora Fingscheidt and starring Helena Zengel in the lead role. The film follows the tumultuous life of 9-year-old Benni, who has been removed from her mother's care due to her uncontrollable behavior, often leading to danger to herself and others.
Benni then goes through various foster homes, care homes, and juvenile detention centers as she struggles to find stability and a place to belong. Despite the best efforts of caring and dedicated social workers, Benni's behavior remains volatile and unpredictable, leading to a cyclical pattern of placement and re-placement that continues throughout the film.
Throughout the film, the audience witnesses the daily struggles of both Benni and the social workers who try to help her, and the limitations of the current child protection system. The film also touches on important themes such as trauma, attachment, mental illness, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult lives.
System Crasher received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution at the 2019 Berlin International Film Festival. The film has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of a child in crisis and the challenges faced by the child welfare system.
