Das Mädchen von früher

The story follows Bente, a school dropout and foster child living on the remote farm of the Strand family. A forensic examination reveals a key hidden in Bente's stomach, raising questions about her intentions with two cans of gasoline and the local gas station attendant's decision to sell her fuel, despite her known history as an arsonist.

As local policeman Lars Klapproth becomes involved, his personal connections complicate the investigation. He is the father of Matilde, a missing girl whose fate was intertwined with the actions of GDR state agencies during the reunification period. The film delves into the mysteries surrounding Bente's disappearance and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets.