The Robber
with Andreas Lust and Franziska Weisz
Director: Benjamin Heisenberg. With Andreas Lust, Franziska Weisz, Markus Schleinzer, Max Edelbacher
A 2009. 96 Min. Production: Nikolaus Geyrhalter Filmproduktion GmbH / Peter Heilrath Filmproduktion International Sales:
Films Distribution
Synopsis
Benjamin Heisenberg’s thriller DER RÄUBER (THE ROBBER), recently awarded
with “Best Newcomer” in the director category at the Bavarian Film
Awards, is based on Martin Prinz’ novel which tells the story of the spectacular
criminal escapades of Austria’s infamous “Pump-gun Ronnie”. Johann
Rettenberger (Andreas Lust) a misfit in the world he’s been released into
and driven by his endorphin addiction embarks on a spellbinding journey to
run marathons and rob banks.
DER RÄUBER (THE ROBBER) is Benjamin Heisenberg sophomore feature film following the
successful SCHLÄFER (SLEEPER), and is based on the true story of “Pump-gun Ronnie” which
Martin Prinz used as source material for his eponymous novel. The film tells the story of Johann
Rettenberger (Andreas Lust) a restless misfit whose anarchistic worldview leads him into an
unavoidable conflict with the society which suffocates his free spirit.
Heisenberg portrays the robber as a top level athlete an “endorphin-junkie” who is driven by an
inexplicable desire to stay in motion. Motivated by the pure beauty of the criminal campaigns
he executes, he is both cool and calculated whilst also fast and resourceful in the frenzied
intensity of his criminal exploits.
Rettenberger’s emotional indifference to rehabilitation is shattered the moment Erika steps
back into his life during a chance meeting at the job centre. She offers him refuge and a place
to stay, however the dark secrets he hides from her and his probation officer soon overwhelm
him.
Misguided in his dual search for love and freedom, the authorities finally begin to close in on
the robber.
Moved by an over-powering inner energy he attempts to flee the largest deployment
of police forces in Austria’s modern history, but will his wit and athleticism give him the
opportunity for one last escape.
DER RÄUBER (THE ROBBER) is a thriller about reckless bank robberies, heart-pounding marathons,
ill-fated love and dramatic escapes.
