Lovers in Düsseldorf: Caroline Kox Presents Her Jelinek Adaptation at Bambi


Date and Time
Location
About this Event
Mood
Venue Type
Caroline Kox’s Lovers: A Biting Premiere at Bambi
On Thursday, October 22, 2026, Düsseldorf will witness the premiere of Caroline Kox’s feature film Lovers at Bambi. The screening starts at 7:00 PM and will be accompanied by the director Caroline Kox. A discussion with the filmmaker is planned afterward.
Between Self-Optimization and Survival Struggle
The modern adaptation of Elfriede Jelinek’s novel tells the story of Brigitte, a trade fair hostess, and Paula, a young woman with influencer dreams. Both are seeking their own way through a world where bodies, relationships, and self-promotion are evaluated according to economic rules.
Brigitte, played by Johanna Wokalek, struggles with financial difficulties, precarious working conditions, and the diminishing social market value of her femininity. Paula, portrayed by Hannah Schiller, relies on digital visibility and online fame as a way out of her bleak everyday life. Their stories intertwine into a bitter, absurd, and frighteningly relevant tragicomedy.
Jelinek Adaptation with Distinctive Cinematic Handwriting
Director Caroline Kox, who realized the film under the artist name Koxi, transfers Jelinek’s novel from the 1970s into the present day of coaching, influencer culture, and digital self-presentation. Format changes, social media aesthetics, and pointed dialogues translate Jelinek’s linguistic experimentalism into a distinctive film language.
The film celebrated its world premiere at the Forum of Berlinale 2026 and combines drama, comedy, and social analysis. The runtime is 98 minutes. The ensemble includes, alongside Johanna Wokalek and Hannah Schiller, Ben Münchow, Victoria Trauttmansdorff, and Susanne Bredehöft.
Audience Discussion with Caroline Kox
The Düsseldorf event offers more than a regular cinema screening. After the film, the discussion with the director provides insights into the screenplay, film production, and the transfer of Elfriede Jelinek’s literature into the present. For event planning, timely ticket purchase through Düsseldorf’s film art cinemas is recommended.
Event Atmosphere at Bambi
Bambi is one of the renowned film art cinemas in downtown Düsseldorf. The lovingly restored hall and the personal conversation with the director create the right setting for a focused event experience. Instead of mere entertainment, the audience can expect an evening of cinema with discussion, societal friction, and lasting impressions.
Conclusion: A Film Evening with Conversation and Stance
Lovers promises an intense premiere for all who appreciate ambitious auteur cinema, literary adaptations, and current social issues. Caroline Kox’s film combines dark humor with a precise analysis of exploitation, self-optimization, and female self-determination. For those who wish to not only watch the film but to further explore its themes together with the director, a special Düsseldorf cinema evening awaits at Bambi.
Official Channels of Caroline Kox:
- Instagram: no official profile found
- Facebook: no official profile found
- YouTube: no official profile found
- TikTok: no official profile found










