The Search for Alice, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Why are you here?

Alice
Alice

I don't know. I’m looking for my mother.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

But do you really understand where she is?

Alice
Alice

I think she is somewhere in the city.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You think? Or do you know?

Alice
Alice

Maybe it's both.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You should never assume.

Alice
Alice

Assumptions are all I have.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then let’s find her together.

Alice
Alice

Alright.

Reflection on Lost Time, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You ever feel like you’re just passing through life?

Alice
Alice

All the time.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Alice
Alice

I don’t know yet.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You should find something that makes you feel real.

Alice
Alice

Like you?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Maybe. But I’m lost too.

Alice
Alice

Then we need to find something together.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Let’s start with your mother.

Alice
Alice

Okay.

The Moment of Connection, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What does home mean to you?

Alice
Alice

It's where I feel safe.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Do you feel safe here?

Alice
Alice

Not really.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What do you miss about home?

Alice
Alice

The people, I guess.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Family?

Alice
Alice

Yeah.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

I miss my family too.

Alice
Alice

Maybe we’re each other’s family for now.

Trust and Vulnerability, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

People are not always kind.

Alice
Alice

But some are.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You should be careful who you trust.

Alice
Alice

What’s the point of not trusting?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

It protects you from pain.

Alice
Alice

Or it makes you lonely.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Loneliness is safer.

Alice
Alice

But is it better?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

I guess that depends on what you value.

Alice
Alice

I want to value people.

A Moment of Decision, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What do we do now?

Alice
Alice

We keep going.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What if we can’t find her?

Alice
Alice

Then we look for ourselves.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

That sounds difficult.

Alice
Alice

Maybe it will be worth it.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You’re brave.

Alice
Alice

I’m just following you.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then let’s both be brave.

Alice
Alice

Okay.

The Weight of Choices, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Do you regret leaving?

Alice
Alice

Sometimes.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Is it better to stay in one place?

Alice
Alice

I think it depends on what you find.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What if you find nothing?

Alice
Alice

Then you can always find something new.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

And what if you lose everything?

Alice
Alice

Then you learn how to rebuild.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You think you can always rebuild?

Alice
Alice

I have to believe that.

The Journey Continues, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Every journey changes you.

Alice
Alice

Is that good or bad?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

It's both. You lose something and gain something.

Alice
Alice

What if you don’t like what you gain?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then you learn to deal with it.

Alice
Alice

Or you change again.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Exactly.

Alice
Alice

That sounds exhausting.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

It is, but it’s also life.

Alice
Alice

I guess that’s worth it.

A Bridge to Understanding, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You know, I wanted to be a father.

Alice
Alice

What happened?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Life got in the way.

Alice
Alice

That’s sad.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What about you?

Alice
Alice

I wanted to be a writer.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What stopped you?

Alice
Alice

Not having the right stories.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

You have stories.

Alice
Alice

Maybe they just need more time.

Hope Amidst Uncertainty, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Life is full of unknowns.

Alice
Alice

That’s what makes it exciting.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

And frightening.

Alice
Alice

But if we give up hope, what’s left?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Nothing.

Alice
Alice

So we have to keep hoping.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Very wise.

Alice
Alice

Thanks. But I think you're wise too.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Guess we make a good team.

Alice
Alice

Yeah, we really do.

Understanding Expectations, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Sometimes I feel like everyone expects something from me.

Alice
Alice

Like what?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

To always be successful.

Alice
Alice

What if you don’t want that?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then what do I do?

Alice
Alice

Follow your own path.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Easier said than done.

Alice
Alice

But isn't it worth it to try?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Yeah, I guess it is.

Alice
Alice

Then let’s figure it out together.

Facing Reality, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Running away won’t solve anything.

Alice
Alice

Sometimes it feels easier.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

It might feel like that, but it just creates more problems.

Alice
Alice

Like what?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Avoiding reality leads to regret.

Alice
Alice

I don’t want to regret anything.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then let’s face it together.

Alice
Alice

Okay. I’m scared.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

That’s alright. So am I.

Alice
Alice

We can be scared together.

The Importance of Dreams, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What’s your biggest dream?

Alice
Alice

To travel everywhere.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What if you never make it?

Alice
Alice

Then I’ll dream about it forever.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Is dreaming enough?

Alice
Alice

It can be. But it’s not the same.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What do you mean?

Alice
Alice

It’s just a start.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then we should make those dreams a reality.

Embracing Change, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Change is uncomfortable.

Alice
Alice

But it's how we grow.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Sometimes I wish things would just stay the same.

Alice
Alice

But nothing ever does.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

That’s the scary part.

Alice
Alice

But also the exciting part.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Is it?

Alice
Alice

I think so. Every new place has something to teach us.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then let’s learn together.

Alice
Alice

I’d like that.

Trusting Each Other, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Can I trust you?

Alice
Alice

I think so.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What if I let you down?

Alice
Alice

Trust isn't just about perfection.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What is it then?

Alice
Alice

It's about showing up, even when it’s hard.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

I’ll do my best.

Alice
Alice

That’s all I ask.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Then let’s keep moving forward.

Alice
Alice

Together.

Finding Closure, Reelive

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

What did we find?

Alice
Alice

I think we found ourselves.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

And maybe a bit of each other.

Alice
Alice

It’s strange how people connect.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Life makes those connections.

Alice
Alice

You think we can stay connected?

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

We can try.

Alice
Alice

I’d like that.

Phillip Winter
Phillip Winter

Me too.

Alice
Alice

This was a good adventure.

Peter Handke

Do you believe in magic, Alice?

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

I don't want to go home. I feel like I'm just getting started.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

We're all just trying to find our way.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

The world is full of stories. We just have to see them.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

Sometimes you have to lose yourself to find where you really belong.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

Life is like a journey without a map.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

You can't always trust what you see.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

I just want to see the world from every angle.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

Memories are the stories we hold onto.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

Every face has a story to tell.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

The distance may separate us, but the journey brings us close.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

Adventure is in the uncertainty.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

You must be willing to follow the unknown.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

There’s beauty in every detour you take.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Peter Handke

Too often, we take the familiar for granted.

Peter Handke

Alice in the Cities, Reelive
Alice

You create your own adventure.

Alice

Alice in the Cities, Reelive

Alice's Letter to Her Mother

In a quiet moment, Alice sits down to write a letter to her mother, expressing her feelings of confusion and longing. The scene is shot with soft lighting, emphasizing her vulnerability. The build-up has been her fear of being abandoned and the uncertainty of her situation. The pivotal moment is her struggle to find the words, showing how deeply she cares yet feels isolated. The aftermath unfolds as she sends the letter, not knowing if it will reach her mother. This moment highlights her innocence and emotional depth.

Context: This scene shows the profound bond between Alice and her mother, setting the emotional stage for Alice's journey throughout the film.

Philippe and Alice on the Train

Philippe and Alice sit together on a train, with the scenery whizzing by outside. Philippe is deep in thought, while Alice playfully pokes fun at him. This light-hearted interaction feels like a moment of respite amidst their uncertainties. The pivotal point comes when Alice asks Philippe if he fears being alone, to which he hesitates, revealing his inner struggles. The connection deepens here, hinting at their mutual reliance. Viewers feel a blend of happiness and sadness, knowing their bond is fragile yet beautiful.

Context: This train journey symbolizes both physical movement and emotional transitions in their relationship.

The Lost Girl

Philippe realizes Alice is missing in a crowded airport, panic rising within him. He frantically searches through the sea of people, calling her name. The chaos around him mirrors his internal turmoil. When he finally finds her standing in a quiet corner, relief washes over him. The pivotal moment is the emotional release when they embrace, showcasing their bond. This scene signifies Philippe’s transformation from a detached photographer to a caring figure for Alice.

Context: Alice wandering off symbolizes her innocence, while Philippe’s frantic searches show his growing affection and responsibility.

Philippe's Photograph

Philippe takes a photograph of Alice against a beautiful backdrop of a foreign city. This moment encapsulates his purpose as an artist and his connection to Alice. The lighting is magical, reflecting the wonder of the places they explore. However, underneath the beauty, there's a hint of sadness—Philippe is capturing moments instead of living them fully. The aftermath sees him wrestling with the idea of whether he is truly present or just an observer. This scene forces viewers to ponder the balance between art and life.

Context: The photograph symbolizes the transient nature of their experiences together, emphasizing the theme of memory.

Alice's Dream of Home

Alice, in a whimsical moment, shares her dream of home with Philippe, describing a place filled with laughter and love. Her expressive face lights up, creating a contrast with Philippe’s contemplative demeanor. The pivotal moment occurs when she climaxes with, 'I want to go home!' prompting Philippe to reflect on where he belongs. This heartfelt expression gives gravity to Alice's character and her longing for stability. Viewers feel a pang of sadness as they witness the contrast between a child's dreams and adult reality.

Context: Alice's yearning symbolizes the underlying theme of searching for belonging and identity.

The Farewell Scene

As Philippe and Alice part ways, the tension is palpable. Philippe kneels to Alice's level, telling her how special she is, and he gives her his favorite toy camera. The emotional weight grows as Alice struggles to understand. The pivotal moment is when Philippe strongly embraces her. This farewell encapsulates their bond, made all the more poignant by their uncertain futures. Viewers feel heartbreak as they witness innocence meeting the harsh realities of life.

Context: This scene serves as a climax for their relationship, pushing both characters towards self-discovery.

The City of Dreams

Philippe and Alice arrive in a visually stunning location, a city that feels alive and magical. The vibrant colors and sounds envelop them, offering a momentary escape from their worries. Philippe captures the beauty around them, but the key moment comes when Alice turns to him and whispers, 'Is this real?' This question forces Philippe to confront his feelings about life being a collection of fleeting moments. Viewers feel a sense of wonder yet an undercurrent of melancholy as they realize these moments cannot last.

Context: This scene embodies the theme of innocence in the face of fleeting beauty, representing childhood exploration.

Philippe's Epiphany

In an emotional montage, Philippe reflects on his life choices while looking at Alice, who is playing nearby. He recalls his past—a life filled with career ambitions yet lacking personal connections. The pivotal moment arises when he recognizes that true fulfillment may lie in forging meaningful relationships rather than success. This realization shifts how he views his journey and their time together. Viewers experience catharsis, feeling inspired by the potential for change.

Context: This moment highlights Philippe's character growth, emphasizing the film's exploration of personal connections vs. ambition.

Alice’s New Friend

Alice meets a child her age while exploring the city. They connect through playful gestures and laughter without needing words. The visual simplicity of their innocent bond contrasts with Philippe's complex emotional state. The pivotal moment is when they share candy, symbolizing a brief but profound understanding. Viewers feel a sense of joy and hope—the purity of childhood friendship emphasizes the power of connection.

Context: This scene represents a fleeting escape from adult worries, refreshing viewers with childlike wonder.

Philippe at the Gallery

Philippe attends an art gallery showcasing his work, but instead of pride, he feels despair. As he gazes at his photographs, memories of moments with Alice flood him. The pivotal moment occurs when he sees a photo of her, mingled with a sense of loss and realization that he has missed capturing true experiences. This scene evokes a profound sense of regret and longing for connection. Viewers feel sympathy for Philippe as he grapples with his conflicting emotions.

Context: This moment showcases the internal conflict between the artist’s ambition and personal relationships.

Alice’s Unexpected Gift

While exploring, Alice finds a small, lost kitten and decides to take care of it. The joy on her face captures the essence of childhood innocence. The pivotal moment comes when Philippe notices her caring nature and his heart softens. This exchange allows the audience to see Alice’s nurturing side and reflect on the importance of compassion. Viewers feel warmth and joy, witnessing the beauty of her character.

Context: This moment reinforces Alice's role as a beacon of hope in Philippe's life.

Philippe's Burden

Philippe confides in a stranger about his fear of losing Alice. His emotional breakdown shows the depth of his connection with her. The room's dim lighting captures his despair. The pivotal moment emerges when he admits, 'I don’t want to be alone anymore.' This raw vulnerability deeply resonates with viewers, offering insight into his character’s struggles. The aftermath leaves viewers questioning the nature of companionship and the human fear of solitude.

Context: This scene highlights the film's theme of interconnectedness through honest and raw emotion.

The Language Barrier

In a restaurant, Philippe struggles to communicate with a waiter while Alice watches, amused. The scene is comedic yet insightful, emphasizing their cultural differences. The pivotal moment is when Alice steps in, using gestures to bridge the gap, showcasing her resourcefulness. Their laughter lightens the mood, but it also emphasizes the connections formed amid confusion. Viewers feel a blend of amusement and warmth, appreciating their growing bond.

Context: This scene encapsulates the theme of overcoming barriers, both linguistic and emotional.

Alice's Reflection

Alice looks at herself in a shop window, contemplating her identity. The reflection blurs slightly, symbolizing her uncertainty about who she is. The pivotal moment occurs when she touches the glass, seeking to connect with her own image. This emotional scene creates a deep connection for viewers, who empathize with her struggle for self-discovery. The feeling of nostalgia intertwines with sadness as viewers see their own childhood insecurities reflected in her.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of identity, a crucial aspect of Alice’s journey.

The Evening Walk

Philippe and Alice stroll through the city at dusk, the sky painted with hues of orange and purple. They share a comfortable silence that speaks volumes. The pivotal moment occurs when Alice, with wide eyes, points out the beauty around her, igniting a spark in Philippe. This simple yet breathtaking scene highlights the contrast between Alice’s wonder and Philippe’s growing cynicism. Viewers are filled with a sense of tranquility yet an undercurrent of impending change.

Context: The calm evening walk serves as a backdrop for introspection and deepening relationships.

The Final Goodbye

As they approach the end of their journey, Philippe and Alice exchange heartfelt farewells at a train station. Alice gives Philippe one last hug, holding onto him as if afraid to let go. This emotional scene becomes tense and poignant as they realize their paths are diverging. The pivotal moment comes with their final exchange of promises to remember each other, cementing their bond. Viewers are overcome with sorrow, knowing it signifies the end of a beautiful yet transient relationship.

Context: This farewell encapsulates their journey, highlighting the themes of connection and the bittersweet nature of memories.


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The Casting of Alice

The character of Alice was originally supposed to be played by another child actor, but Nikolette Krebitz, who eventually got the role, impressed director Wim Wenders during auditions with her natural performance.

Why it matters: This casting change allowed for a more authentic and nuanced portrayal of Alice, contributing significantly to the film’s emotional depth and the chemistry between the child and the adult protagonist, thereby enhancing the viewer's connection to their journey.

On-the-Road Filming

Much of 'Alice in the Cities' was shot on actual locations across Germany and the United States, capturing real moments and interactions.

Why it matters: The use of real settings made the film feel more organic and relatable, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the characters' journey and adding an authentic sense of place that amplified the film's themes of exploration and dislocation.

Improvised Dialogue

Wim Wenders encouraged actors to improvise parts of their dialogue to create a more genuine atmosphere and capture spontaneous moments.

Why it matters: This choice lent an unpredictability to the performances, making conversations feel more natural and vulnerable, which aligned perfectly with the film’s theme of uncertain connections in an ever-changing world.

Cinematography Techniques

The film employed a unique shooting style that blended handheld camerawork with carefully composed shots, resulting in a mix of spontaneity and artistry.

Why it matters: This combination allowed viewers to feel the intimacy of the characters while still appreciating the visual beauty of the landscapes, reinforcing the contrast between the characters' internal states and their external experiences.

Wim Wenders' Inspiration

Wim Wenders based the film's narrative structure on his own travels and experiences, reflecting his feelings of displacement and search for belonging.

Why it matters: This autobiographical element adds a layer of authenticity to the film, enhancing the audience's emotional engagement by allowing them to sympathize with the characters' struggles and aspirations.

Child’s Perspective

The film was intentionally shot to capture events through Alice's perspective, focusing on her reactions to the world around her.

Why it matters: This choice deepens the viewer’s understanding of the adult world through a child's eyes, illustrating themes of innocence, curiosity, and confusion while enriching the narrative's emotional resonance.

Sound Design Choices

The use of everyday sounds instead of a typical score punctuated the film's realism and enhanced the storytelling.

Why it matters: The sounds of the world interacting with the characters heighten the immersion and make viewers feel a part of the characters' journey, emphasizing the 'lost' aspect of their travels.

Cultural Juxtaposition

The juxtaposition of American culture and European sensibilities was deliberately included to showcase the contrasts in lifestyle and worldview.

Why it matters: This cultural exploration adds layers of meaning to the character interactions and challenges perceptions, urging audiences to reflect on their own cultural biases and understanding.

Filming Locations

Many key shots in urban environments were filmed in locations like New York City and various cities in Germany, blending different cultures and atmospheres.

Why it matters: The choice of diverse filming locations accentuates the themes of wandering and seeking, making the protagonist's journey feel both expansive and deeply personal.

Last-Minute Script Changes

Some scenes were restructured during the filming process based on actor performances and location dynamics.

Why it matters: These on-the-fly adjustments showcased the fluidity of the film’s narrative style and resulted in moments that felt more organic and true to the characters' arcs, enriching the overall experience.

Filming with Children

Wim Wenders took significant time to build trust and rapport with Krebitz during filming to help her deliver a natural performance.

Why it matters: This emphasis on relationship-building between director and child actor is reflected in the film, contributing to a sense of authenticity and emotional truth that resonates with audiences.

Philosophical Themes

The film explores themes of identity and belonging, which were influenced by Wenders’ existential thoughts at the time.

Why it matters: This thematic depth invites viewers to engage with broader questions about life, travel, and personal connections, ultimately establishing 'Alice in the Cities' as a thought-provoking piece of cinema.

Editing and Pacing

The film's editing was intentionally paced to reflect a contemplative journey, allowing moments of silence and stillness.

Why it matters: This unique pacing choice invites the audience to simmer on the characters' emotions and experiences, making the film a reflective piece rather than just a narrative drive, which matches the protagonist's aimless quest.


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