Meine Kinder und ich

This is one of Grethe Weiser's most endearing roles, as a middle-aged widow confronted with the task of providing for her large family. Refusing to give up, the matriarch finds many ways to assure a family income and to avoid giving up care for her children.

There are many very touching scenes, most noteworthy a moment where one of the children offers his "piggy bank" savings to help pay bills and buy groceries. Explaining that his father had promised to match the boy's savings so he could "go to camp" is sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Throughout this wonderful film, the mother fights with and for her children, supporting them not only materially, but emotionally, with an unconditional love and affection seldom seen. During a time where women were still expected to tend exclusively to kitchen, church and bearing children, a widow struggling with a large number of dependent children, virtually unaided by public support was unthinkable. This film is sure to empower women and gain respect for the efforts of mothers who selflessly put their children first.