Imagine diving into 14th-century southern Germany—not with modern dialogue, but with authentic Middle High German. The short film Dû bist mîn ich bin dîn by director Tim Gerbert is a gem that blends history, emotion, and linguistic heritage. Even if you’re a German language enthusiast who doesn’t fully grasp the medieval tongue, you’ll adore it. The subtitles help, and the sound alone revives the roots of our modern language in a captivating way.
The Story: A Boy Grows Up
The film follows young Trutwin, living a secluded life with his mother in a forest-edge cottage. His carefree childhood shatters when she falls gravely ill, forcing him to step up. Suddenly, Trutwin must handle everything: starting a fire with flint (tricky, as the film realistically shows), cooking, chopping wood, and even venturing to town for help. It’s a classic coming-of-age tale, exploring fears, hopes, and the shift from old to new. Trutwin stumbles, rises, and learns to make his own decisions in a race against time. The plot is simple yet universal. Who hasn’t faced a life crossroads?
What makes it shine is the authenticity. Dialogues are meticulously translated into Middle High German, with sets, costumes, props, and music faithfully recreating the era. No blue filters or Hollywood gloss—just real reenactors in their own historical gear, like a charming three-flame oil lamp in the background. It spotlights forgotten medieval daily life, from the struggle of fire-making to a child’s terror in the woods.
Why Language Lovers Will Adore This Film
Even if Middle High German stumps you, the film’s magic lies in its bravery. Shooting entirely in a historical language is bold and sounds wonderful: poetic, raw, and wonderfully alien. At just 22, Tim Gerbert wrote, produced, and directed this on a shoestring budget, turning his passions for history and film into something special. Inspired by his own post-school crossroads, he wove personal themes into the story.
Born in 2001 near Stuttgart, Gerbert discovered filmmaking at nine with his dad’s camera. After training as a media designer, he plans to study film direction. In his statement, he shares: Film unites all arts, letting us build worlds and evoke emotions. He assembled a passionate team to make this historically accurate vision real.
Watch and Support!
Dû bist mîn ich bin dîn is more than a film. It’s a tribute to lost cultures and the power of language. Whether it tugs at your heartstrings (like it did for this sentimental viewer missing her mum) or simply impresses with its authenticity, it reminds us that great stories transcend time and tongue. Support young talents like Tim; it’s worth it!