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David Schalko’s 'Warum Ich?' Debuts as Six-Part Anthology on ARD Mediathek

It uses grotesque realism to question why individuals confront sudden personal crises

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Der Schauspieler und Regisseur Bjarne Mädel (Archivbild).
Merlin Sandmeyer (l.) und Thomas Schubert in „Warum ich?“

Overview

  • Six standalone episodes are now streaming in the ARD Mediathek, with linear broadcasts set to begin on ARD One from June 26.
  • Episodes were filmed in spring 2024 around Vienna and unfold in diverse locations such as trains, restaurants, and private homes.
  • The series blends black humor and satire to probe themes of humiliation, mortality, and the absurdity of everyday life.
  • In two episodes, Bjarne Mädel portrays a mysterious stranger whose appearances on a train and in a restaurant drive key narrative turns.
  • Developed by ARD Degeto Film and Superfilm Filmproduktions GmbH, the anthology showcases Schalko’s hallmark grotesque realism and boundary-pushing storytelling.