Wild Mouse

| 2017

Directed by: Josef Hader

Main Plot

"Wild Mouse," directed by Josef Hader, follows the story of Georg, a middle-aged music critic who is abruptly fired from his long-time job at a Viennese newspaper. Struggling with his newfound unemployment and the impact it has on his identity, Georg conceals the truth from his wife, Johanna, who is preoccupied with her own desire to have a child. As Georg's frustration mounts, he embarks on a series of increasingly reckless and absurd actions, including a misguided attempt at revenge against his former boss. Along the way, he reconnects with an old school friend, Erich, and the two engage in a harebrained scheme involving an amusement park. The film blends dark humor with a poignant exploration of midlife crisis, societal expectations, and the search for personal fulfillment. Through Georg's journey, "Wild Mouse" offers a satirical yet empathetic look at the complexities of modern life and the lengths to which one might go to reclaim a sense of purpose.

Characters

  • Josef Hader plays Georg, a music critic who loses his job and embarks on a series of increasingly desperate and comedic revenge schemes against his former boss.
  • Pia Hierzegger plays Claudia, the supportive yet frustrated wife of Georg, a music critic who spirals into chaos after losing his job, driving the film's darkly comedic narrative.
  • Georg Friedrich plays Georg, a disgruntled music critic who embarks on a series of petty revenge schemes after being fired, leading to unexpected consequences.

Ending Explained

In the movie 'Wild Mouse,' directed by Josef Hader, the conclusion brings a resolution to the chaotic journey of the protagonist, Georg, a middle-aged music critic who loses his job. Throughout the film, Georg's life spirals as he engages in increasingly reckless behavior, including vandalizing his former boss's car and attempting to start a new career as a roller coaster operator. The ending sees Georg's personal and professional life in disarray. His relationship with his wife, Johanna, is strained due to his erratic actions and her own struggles with infertility. Despite their conflicts, the couple ultimately reconciles, finding a fragile sense of unity and understanding. Georg's attempts to regain control over his life are symbolized by his final act of riding the roller coaster, the 'Wild Mouse,' which metaphorically represents his tumultuous journey. The film concludes on a note of ambiguous hope, suggesting that while Georg's life remains imperfect and uncertain, he has gained some insight and acceptance of his circumstances. The ending underscores themes of resilience and the search for personal meaning amidst life's unpredictability.

Josef Hader Comedy Crime Drama Josef Hader Pia Hierzegger Georg Friedrich