As part of the Weeks of the German Language, the Goethe-Institut Cyprus presents a special screening of Greetings from Mars at the Heritage School. This enchanting film invites audiences into the world of ten-year-old Tom, an autistic boy with dreams as vast as the cosmos.
Tom’s love for clear structures and his aversion to noise and the colour red set the stage for a narrative that is both sensitive and humorous. When his mother embarks on a work trip to China, Tom and his siblings find themselves navigating the summer holidays under the care of their unpredictable grandparents in the countryside. For Tom, this chaotic environment becomes his personal “Mars mission”, a journey filled with unfamiliar experiences, challenges, and unexpected joys.
Greetings from: A Journey of Discovery
Throughout the film, Tom’s character embarks on a quest to confront his fears and embrace the unknown. The story delicately explores themes of family dynamics, individuality, and the courage required to grow beyond oneself. It resonates with audiences of all ages, encouraging empathy and understanding towards those who may be different.
From Page to Screen
Greetings from Mars is adapted from the novel by Thomas Möller and Sebastian Grusnick, published in 2019. The authors have also penned the screenplay for this heartfelt adaptation, which is brought to life under the direction of Sarah Winkenstette. In the film, Theo Kretschmer shines in the role of Tom, supported by talented co-stars Lilli Lacher as Nina and Anton Noltensmeier as Elmar.
A Celebration of Achievement
The film has garnered acclaim at multiple film festivals, reflecting its powerful storytelling and artistic merit. Sarah Winkenstette received the esteemed Kids’ Jury Award for Best Direction at the Luxembourg City Film Festival 2025, underlining her skill in crafting a poignant narrative that resonates with younger audiences. Additionally, Theo Kretschmer’s performance was recognised with the Best Actor award at the Goldener Spatz 2024, further testament to the film’s impact.
Acknowledgements and Awards
Adding to its impressive accolades, the film also received two prestigious recognitions at the White Elephant Award 2025: Best Direction for Sarah Winkenstette and Best Screenplay for the collaborative work of Sebastian Grusnick and Thomas Möller. These awards highlight the film’s excellence in both storytelling and direction, marking it as a significant contribution to children’s cinema.
The screening at the Heritage School promises to be an exciting event for families and film enthusiasts alike. It offers an opportunity not only to enjoy a beautifully crafted story but also to engage with the themes of understanding and acceptance that are so vital in today’s society.
