Debut feature 'Krux' moves from Toronto to San Sebastián competition

Berlin-based film-maker Tony Vahl has taken his debut feature Krux from Toronto to the main competition at San Sebastián.

The German-Polish production premiered in Toronto’s Discovery strand, a section set aside for new directors, before making its European debut in competition in Spain, according to Variety. Vahl is credited as writer-director on the project, The Hollywood Reporter reported.

The story is set in an isolated village in northeast Germany in the final days of World War II. The Nazi regime is crumbling and Soviet forces are approaching. The film is inspired by true events, Variety reported ahead of the festival season.

Jella Haase plays Greta, a war widow at the centre of the village. Martin Wuttke plays the village pastor, Clemens Schick plays schoolmaster Fritz and Lukas Milo plays mayor Walter. Piotr Sobocinski Jr. served as director of photography.

The first trailer for the Second World War drama was unveiled in August ahead of its Toronto premiere, Deadline reported. Sales agent Global Constellation had earlier secured pre-sales on a project listed as “Crux,” Variety reported in February.

What makes this stand out is the route. A small, remote setting and a first-time director moved quickly from a newcomers’ showcase to a flagship competition slot. For audiences, this means the film will now meet European buyers and festival viewers in the same week as far larger titles.