Die Mutigen 56 - Deutschlands längster Streik

This documentary presents the story of Emma Freese, who faces financial uncertainty when her husband falls ill. The film captures the desperation of families relying on wages from the Howaldtswerke in Kiel. It chronicles the 1956 labor strike involving 34,000 metalworkers in Schleswig-Holstein, marking it as the longest and toughest strike in Germany’s history.

Through its exploration of worker's rights, the film sheds light on the broader societal issues of the time, including the impact of war on the workforce. The historical context is enriched by the perspectives of a woman director, Ingo Helm, who brings a unique lens to this critical chapter in labor history. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Anna Schimrigk and David Bredin, who portray the struggles and determination of the workers fighting for dignity and fair compensation.