Name: Walk to Syracuse
Start: 2026-08-29T20:15:00+02:00
End: 2026-08-29T21:45:00+02:00
Location: filmforum

A cinematic stage experience between longing, freedom, and GDR reality

On August 29, 2026, the filmforum Duisburg will open its doors for Walk to Syracuse – a melancholic comedy about longing, courage, and the long journey from confinement to freedom. At the center is Paul Gompitz, played by Charly Hübner, who, despite all odds, holds onto a dream that is bigger than the GDR border. The filmforum, Germany's first municipal cinema, creates the perfect theater atmosphere for an intense cultural and film experience with its 1950s flair. ([duisburg.de](https://www.duisburg.de/tourismus/stadt_erleben/freizeitundaktiv/filmforum))

Between longing and barbed wire

The story follows Paul Gompitz, who orients himself by Johann Gottfried Seume's journey to Syracuse, setting a dream against political reality. Lars Jessen stages the material as a mixture of travelogue, character study, and tragicomedy; several reviews emphasize the tender, melancholic tone and the perspective on freedom, home, and personal loyalty. The film is based on Friedrich Christian Delius' literary template and a real escape case, adding additional dramatic tension to the narrative. ([filmforum.de](https://filmforum.de/filme/spaziergang-nach-syrakus-51601/?utm_source=openai))

Charly Hübner and Lina Beckmann as the emotional core

Charly Hübner shapes the film as Paul with quiet defiance and subtle humor, while Lina Beckmann, as Anne, embodies the counterforce of familiarity. The cast is described in reviews as precise and credible; particularly, the relationship between the two characters carries the staging and makes the material more than just a historical adventure. Thus, a stage experience in the metaphorical sense emerges: concentrated, human, with a clear dramatic line and plenty of space for audience reaction. ([epd-film.de](https://www.epd-film.de/filmkritiken/spaziergang-nach-syrakus?utm_source=openai))

The filmforum Duisburg as an ideal setting

The filmforum is regarded as Germany's first municipal cinema and is known for its special atmosphere reminiscent of a film palace from the 1950s. Located in the city center of Duisburg, it offers a traditional backdrop for cinematic evenings with cultural aspirations. For visitors, the connection to the main train station, parking options around Dellplatz and Goldstraße, and information on accessibility are particularly relevant. ([duisburg.de](https://www.duisburg.de/tourismus/stadt_erleben/freizeitundaktiv/filmforum))

Proximity to the audience, program strength, and a clear focus

Those interested in the interplay of identity, departure, and inner freedom will find an evening that resonates here. Walk to Syracuse combines literary template, historical urgency, and strong acting to create a culturally journalistic thrilling film experience. In the hall of the filmforum Duisburg unfolds an evening that addresses both the mind and the heart. ([filmforum.de](https://filmforum.de/filme/spaziergang-nach-syrakus-51601/?utm_source=openai))

Conclusion: This screening promises not only great cinema but an evening full of longing, tension, and subtle nuances. Those seeking demanding film art with atmosphere should experience Walk to Syracuse live at the filmforum Duisburg. ([duisburg.de](https://www.duisburg.de/tourismus/stadt_erleben/freizeitundaktiv/filmforum))

Voices of the fans

On the official social channels of the filmforum Duisburg, attention for the program and cinema culture usually arises; however, there are no substantial fan comments available from the present search results. ([duisburg.de](https://www.duisburg.de/tourismus/stadt_erleben/freizeitundaktiv/filmforum))