The film “Gentle Monster” addresses sexualized violence against children from an unusual perspective: it portrays a woman whose husband is arrested for child abuse. Director Marie Kreutzer and actress Jella Haase gave an interview to Spiegel about the film’s creation and the emotional challenge of playing the role.
Kreutzer said the film changed her view of humanity. She grappled intensely with the question of how relatives of perpetrators cope with the situation. Haase added that she had to depict the character’s inner turmoil — torn between loyalty and horror at her partner’s actions.
“Gentle Monster” is not a classic thriller but a psychological drama that confronts viewers with moral dilemmas. The film opens in German cinemas on June 18, 2026.
