“SIXTY MINUTES” (2024) | Film Review

Reference to Jackie Chan: At around 49′, a shot of the glass breaking is reminiscent of “POLICE STORY” (1985)

Run, Octa, run!

‘60 MINUTES’ (2024) is the first German martial arts film to be distributed by Netflix, and it impresses with authentic action and a plot that almost everyone can identify with.

The 90-minute film was written and directed by Oliver Kienle and features actor, musician and martial artist Emilio Sakraya in a tough role as MMA fighter OCTAVIO, who makes a difficult decision.

An important fight is taking place on the 7th birthday of his daughter LEONIE. Not only honour is at stake, but also a lot of money. Because he and his mate PAUL are on the verge of bankruptcy with their martial arts studio in Berlin. The fight is supposed to bring in the necessary change.

Octa is supported by COSIMA, played by the toughest stuntwoman in Germany, MARIE MOUROUM. As the female lead, she steals the show from the boys more than once. You can tell that Marie has international experience in showbiz, both in indie and big-budget productions, and knows how to sell herself as a screen warrior and serious actress.

More of this in the future, please!

But shortly before Octa starts his important battle, he is given an ultimatum by his ex’s new partner, a lawyer: Sole custody is to go to his ex. Octa is not going to take this lying down. He runs away from the fight and races across Berlin to be with his daughter, experiencing his own personal generational curse in the process.

A great story level that is easy to peel like an onion. Incidentally, this is also the name of the little kitten (German: “Zwiebel”) that ensures a happy ending. ‘60 MINUTES’ isn’t just entertaining fun, it’s also about trust, betrayal, friendship, parenthood and setting priorities.

I deduct a few points because of the original sound mix, which I find mumbled in places; somehow a constant issue with German productions. Nevertheless, absolutely recommendable.

A strong 6.2 out of 10 stars

Original trailer (subs) | “Sixty Minutes” (2024)

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