The Merchant of Four Seasons | Der Handler der vier Jahreszeiten (1972)

Synopsis

This film concerns the life and death of Hans Epp. Hans is an amiable and likeable character who despite his failings, and there are many, retains our sympathy to the end. Hans struggles to progress and obtain respect but is thwarted at every turn - usually by the women in his life.

Finding himself increasingly isolated and lonely, and having lost his status, he becomes increasingly depressed. His depression fuels a self destructive desire and the film ends as Hans purposefully drinks himself to death in a local bar. --Imdb

Cast: Irm Hermann, Hans Hirschmüller, Hanna Schygulla, Klaus Löwitsch, Karl Scheydt, Andrea Schober, Gusti Kreissl, Ingrid Caven, Kurt Raab, Heide Simon, Peter Chatel, Elga Sorbas, Lilo Pempeit, Walter Sedlmayr, El Hedi ben Salem

The Merchant of Four Seasons was a turning point in Fassbinder's career, marking his entry into the international film arena. It is considered by film critics to be one of Fassbinder's best films.

The title derives from the French expression for a fruit and vegetable seller, un marchand des quatre-saisons.

The film explores issues of class prejudices, domestic violence, infidelity, family discord, depression and self-destructive behavior. --Wiki

Read about this film

Country: Germany
Language: German
Color: Color
Runtime: 88 min.