Labeled as “drama, fantasy, mystery,” this 2013 film is almost more of a science fiction romance for teenagers. It is the first in a series of adaptations of the Rubinrot (Ruby Red) trilogy by Kerstin Gier and Anthea Bell. The second, Saphirblau (Sapphire Blue), was released in 2014 and Smaragdgrün (Emerald Green) in 2016. Although this is a German series, it takes place in London.
The trilogy has no obvious issues for the classroom. It is not rated in the U.S., and is rated 12 and up in Germany. I would suggest it as a low PG-13 in America, as there are some scenes using magic that may scare young viewers. The romantic piece of this series is age appropriate for American culture as well, and are put together in such a way that is not embarrassing or awkward for viewers of all ages.
While there may not be an obvious educational purpose to this series, the films are great replacements to the traditional translated versions of Disney films, allowing German teachers to have a set of appropriate and culturally authentic films to use in our classroom, whether as a sub day, a reward day, or as a connection to authentic literature as it connects to AP Themes.
Many actors in this film take part in many other films we will explore as potential classroom-worthy pieces. Katharina Thalbach, who plays Tante Maddy, was in Ludwig II. as well as Almanya – Willkommen in Deutschland. She has been acting since 1960. Rubinrot was Gottfried John’s last film. He played Caesar in Asterix und Obelix gegen Caesar.