More of the sensitive, attentive drama that I expect from this director; probably the most direct of his Döblin influence before Alexanderplatz, which is not a bad thing. Very impressive camerawork & roles from the Fassbinder regulars [an early one from Udo Kier, too]. It's a shame no one has yet to release the televised version, even if nothing much feels missing in the shorter cut until the slightly abrupt end.

depressing