New Movies: Stay a little longer (2024) by Max Kassun: A Forbidden Evening of Power and Relationships
- dailyentertainment95
- Jun 14
- 10 min read
Core Summary
Stay a little longer (2024), originally titled Bleib doch noch in German, is an independent German drama and thriller film directed, written, and edited by Max Kassun. The film centers on two young high school graduates who receive an unexpected invitation to their teacher's home. What begins as an innocent, project-related gathering quickly transforms into a "forbidden evening" during which an intense and complex relationship develops between the three individuals. The narrative delves into themes of power dynamics, social norms, and the unsettling boundaries of intimacy, raising questions that challenge conventional societal expectations. Produced with a modest budget, this intimate play (Kammerspiel) is a thought-provoking exploration of human connection and transgression.
Short Summary
Max Kassun's Stay a little longer (2024) is a German drama-thriller. Two high school graduates are invited to their teacher's home, leading to a "forbidden evening" where an intense, complex relationship forms between the three. The film explores power dynamics, social norms, and the boundaries of intimacy.
About movie: https://www.crew-united.com/en/Stay-a-little-longer__306536.html, https://manikafilms.de/en/, https://bleib-doch-noch.de/
Link to watch: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Max-Kassun/dp/B0DPZWNVVR/ (Germany)
Detailed Summary
Stay a little longer (2024), with its German title Bleib doch noch, is an independent drama and thriller film from Germany. It marks the feature film debut for Max Kassun, who not only directed and wrote the screenplay but also served as the film's editor and a producer. Kassun transitioned from working on commercial and image films through his company Studio Nordlicht GmbH to focus entirely on fictional filmmaking, driven by a passion for "film as an expression of an inner world, an invitation to feel and reflect."
Release Information: The film premiered in Hamburg in 2024. It had a cinema release in Germany on December 9, 2024, with streaming availability announced as "soon" after that date. The film has a runtime of 86 minutes. While it was listed as "2024" for its main release, some sources indicate its production period spanning "2022-2024." It also had a screening at the Lissabon Indie Film Festival in 2024.
Plot: The narrative revolves around two young high school graduates who are invited to their teacher's home. What starts as an seemingly innocent meeting, possibly related to a school project, gradually evolves into a "forbidden evening." During this time, an "intense relationship develops between the three of them." The brief synopsis directly states that the teacher "wants more than just to help with their project," hinting at the unsettling nature of the burgeoning connection.
Genre and Style: The film is categorized as a Drama, "Intimate play" (Kammerspiel), and Thriller. The term "Kammerspiel" suggests a psychologically intense drama often set in a confined space with a small cast, focusing on character interaction and internal conflict. This aligns with the film's premise of a single evening at the teacher's home. It raises "questions of power and social norms," indicating a focus on moral and ethical boundaries.
Themes: The central themes explored in Stay a little longer include:
Power Dynamics: The inherent imbalance of power between a teacher and students, and how that is exploited or shifts within the developing relationship.
Forbidden Relationships and Boundaries: The transgression of conventional social and ethical norms.
Intimacy and Psychological Manipulation: The intensity of the interactions and the potential for emotional or psychological influence.
Vulnerability and Control: How characters navigate moments of exposure and attempts to assert dominance or exert influence.
Youth and Experience: The clash between the naivete of the graduates and the possibly manipulative intentions of the teacher.
Cast: The main cast includes:
Chiara Lüssow as Ramona (leading role)
Melina Petala as Sophie (leading role)
Erik Rodrigo Liedtke as Herr Nowak (the teacher, leading role)
Michou Pascale Anderson as Mutter (supporting role)
Marc von Hennig as Mann (supporting role)
Production Details: The film was produced with a modest budget of €7500, a testament to its independent nature. Principal photography took place over 11 days in Hamburg, Germany. Cinematography was handled by Nepomuk Pfaff, and sound by Enrico Quail (also credited as Enrico Wachtel for sound design and mixing). The production companies are MANIKA Films and Studio Nordlicht GmbH.
Plot Summary
Invitation to the Teacher's Home: Two young high school graduates are invited to their teacher's residence for an evening.
Forbidden Intentions: The teacher, Herr Nowak, seeks more than academic assistance, hinting at an ulterior motive.
Intense Relationship Develops: Over the course of the evening, a complex and unsettling relationship begins to form between the three.
Questions of Power: The narrative explores the shifting power dynamics and the transgression of social norms.
Psychological Drama: The film delves into the intimate and potentially manipulative nature of the interactions.
Director's Vision
Max Kassun's vision for Stay a little longer (2024) is to create an intimate and psychologically intense drama that probes the unsettling boundaries of human relationships, particularly within a power-imbalanced dynamic. As a filmmaker driven by "film as an expression of an inner world, an invitation to feel and reflect," Kassun aims to provoke thought and discussion around sensitive social norms. His vision emphasizes:
"Kammerspiel" Intensity: Focusing on a confined setting and a small cast to heighten psychological tension and allow for deep character exploration. This approach, characteristic of German "Kammerspiel," emphasizes internal conflict and subtle shifts in power.
Exploration of Taboo and Social Norms: Kassun intends to raise "questions of power and social norms" by depicting a "forbidden evening" that challenges conventional understandings of teacher-student relationships and appropriate boundaries.
Provoking Reflection: The film is designed to invite the audience to "feel and reflect" on the complexities of human connection, manipulation, and the often-unspoken dynamics within intimate settings.
Subtle Thriller Elements: While primarily a drama, the "thriller" aspect likely comes from the psychological suspense, the unsettling nature of the teacher's intentions, and the tension surrounding the unfolding "intense relationship."
Independent Spirit: Produced on a very modest budget, Kassun's vision reflects a commitment to artistic expression and a willingness to tackle challenging subjects with a lean, character-focused approach.
Key Themes
Power Dynamics and Abuse of Power: The inherent authority of a teacher figure and its potential exploitation over vulnerable students.
Forbidden Relationships and Taboo: The exploration of a relationship that transgresses established social and ethical boundaries.
Intimacy and Manipulation: The psychological complexities of intense, perhaps unhealthy, connections.
Social Norms and Conformity: Questioning and challenging societal expectations regarding relationships and appropriate conduct.
Vulnerability of Youth: The innocence and impressionability of young graduates in a precarious situation.
Psychological Thriller: The tension and suspense derived from the unsettling nature of the interactions and the uncertain outcomes.
Key Success Factors
Intriguing and Provocative Premise: The setup of a forbidden relationship between a teacher and students immediately draws attention and promises a challenging narrative.
"Kammerspiel" Style: The intimate setting and focus on character dynamics can create a powerful and intense viewing experience.
Director's Multiple Roles: Max Kassun's involvement as director, writer, editor, and producer suggests a strong, singular artistic vision for the film.
Focus on Relevant Social Issues: Themes of power, consent, and social norms are highly topical and can resonate with audiences.
Independent Spirit: Created on a modest budget, appealing to audiences who appreciate raw, unfiltered storytelling.
Awards and Nominations
As an independent film released in late 2024 and premiering in 2024, Stay a little longer (2024) is still in its early stages for major awards recognition.
It was selected for the Lissabon Indie Film Festival in 2024.
Max Kassun's previous short film Kunstkörper won an Audience Award at the Harzmovienale in 2020. His short film Spacehead was nominated for a Camgaroo Award in 2016. These indicate some prior recognition for his work.
One source mentioned a German film received Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA nominations in early 2025 (for "Best Picture in non-English language"), but it is unconfirmed if this refers to Stay a little longer. Given the film's independent nature and specific genre, it's more likely to gain traction in independent film circuits rather than major awards from the outset.
Critics Reception
Specific Site Summaries:
Vimeo (Max Kassun's portfolio or collaborator's pages): This platform is the most likely place to find any direct information or (informal) feedback. While not a "critic" site, the film's presence here with a brief description would be the primary source. As of my last check, a direct public page with a full film available for general viewing or widespread comments was not readily discoverable. Information found points to it being listed as a 2024 short.
IMDb: While IMDb might list the short film and its crew (Max Kassun often listed as Cinematographer or Director), it typically does not host a significant number of critic reviews for shorts, nor does it aggregate scores for them in the same way it does for features. Any "reviews" would likely be sparse user ratings.
Film Festival Listings: Short films often gain recognition through festival selections. While a specific festival selection for this exact title wasn't immediately prominent in my search, participation in festivals could lead to mentions in festival programs or very niche blog reviews from festival attendees. However, these are not aggregated.
Box Office
As an independent German film with a modest budget of €7500 and a cinema release in Germany on December 9, 2024, Stay a little longer (2024) is not expected to have significant theatrical box office returns. Its primary reach will likely be through film festivals, VOD/streaming platforms, and specialized independent film distribution channels. No specific box office figures are widely reported.
Production Summary
Stay a little longer (2024) is an independent German drama and thriller film, also known by its German title Bleib doch noch. It has a runtime of 86 minutes.
Production Companies
MANIKA Films
Studio Nordlicht GmbH
Sales Companies
MANIKA Films is listed as handling sales/distribution for Stay a little longer (2024).
Distribution Companies
MANIKA Films (Germany - Cinema Release & Streaming soon)
Likely to pursue additional VOD/streaming platform distribution internationally.
Streaming Release Date
Stay a little longer (2024) had its cinema release in Germany on December 9, 2024. Streaming availability was announced as "soon" after this date, suggesting a digital release either in late 2024 or early 2025. Specific international streaming dates are not yet confirmed.
Theatrical Release
Stay a little longer (2024) had a cinema release in Germany on December 9, 2024. It also screened at the Lissabon Indie Film Festival in 2024.
Why to Recommend the Movie
Intriguing and Provocative Premise: Explores complex and sensitive themes of power dynamics and forbidden relationships.
Psychological Depth: As an "intimate play" (Kammerspiel), it promises a focused and intense character study.
Strong Independent Vision: Max Kassun's multi-faceted role ensures a singular, artistic approach.
Timely Social Relevance: Addresses contemporary discussions around consent, boundaries, and authority figures.
Unique European Voice: Offers a fresh perspective from German independent cinema.
Why to Watch the Movie
If you enjoy psychological thrillers and dramas: Especially those set in confined spaces with intense character interactions.
For films that explore challenging social issues: It delves into sensitive topics like power imbalances and taboos.
If you appreciate independent filmmaking: Made on a modest budget, focusing on story and performance.
To experience a "Kammerspiel": A genre known for its intense, character-focused drama.
To see the work of an emerging director: Max Kassun's feature debut promises a unique perspective.
Movie Trend
Stay a little longer (2024) aligns with the trend of Independent Psychological Dramas that delve into complex human relationships and power dynamics within constrained settings, often known as "Kammerspiel" in German cinema. It also fits into a broader trend of films that tackle Socially Relevant and Controversial Themes in an intimate, character-focused manner. The film's low budget and multi-hyphenate director position it firmly within the realm of Arthouse and Festival Cinema, seeking to provoke thought and artistic discussion.
Social Trend
The film directly engages with the contemporary social trend of increased awareness and discussion around Power Dynamics, Consent, and Boundaries, particularly in relationships involving authority figures (like teachers). It explores the complexities and potential abuses within such dynamics. Furthermore, by delving into "forbidden relationships," it touches upon societal anxieties surrounding Ethical Conduct and Transgression of Norms, prompting audiences to reflect on the unspoken rules that govern human interaction and the consequences when they are challenged.
Final Verdict
Stay a little longer (2024), originally Bleib doch noch, is an independent German drama-thriller marking the feature debut of Max Kassun, who also wrote and edited the film. Set during a "forbidden evening" at a teacher's home with two high school graduates, the film quickly descends into an intense and complex relationship between the trio. Kassun's "Kammerspiel" style effectively delves into unsettling power dynamics and challenges societal norms, creating a psychologically charged atmosphere with a modest budget. While specific critical acclaim is still emerging, the film's provocative premise, intimate focus on character interaction, and exploration of highly relevant social themes make it a compelling and thought-provoking watch for audiences drawn to intense, independent cinema.
Recommendations for filmmakers
Embrace "Kammerspiel" for Impact: For independent filmmakers with limited budgets, focusing on a small cast, confined setting, and intense character interaction can create a powerful and psychologically rich film.
Tackle Challenging Themes: Don't shy away from sensitive or provocative subjects, but approach them with depth and nuance to foster genuine discussion rather than mere shock value.
Multi-Hyphenate Approach: Taking on multiple roles (director, writer, editor, producer) can ensure a singular artistic vision and maximize resources on a lean production.
Prioritize Psychological Tension: Build suspense not through action, but through character dynamics, shifting power, and emotional ambiguity.
Seek Festival Exposure: Independent film festivals are crucial platforms for gaining recognition, reviews, and distribution for films with unique artistic visions.
Recommendations for Movie Industry
Support Independent Voices: Continue to fund and distribute films from emerging directors who demonstrate a clear artistic vision, especially those working with limited resources.
Promote Niche Genres: Recognize the audience for "Kammerspiel" and psychologically intense dramas that delve into complex human behavior and social issues.
Encourage Socially Relevant Storytelling: Invest in films that provoke discussion and challenge societal norms, contributing to important contemporary dialogues.
Value Artistic Risk-Taking: Acknowledge and reward filmmakers who dare to explore uncomfortable or taboo subjects with integrity and artistic merit.
Facilitate Digital Distribution for Arthouse: Ensure independent and international art films have accessible VOD and streaming pathways to reach a wider audience beyond limited theatrical runs.
Final Conclusions
Stay a little longer (2024), also known by its German title Bleib doch noch, is a compelling independent drama and thriller directed, written, and edited by Max Kassun. The film unfolds over a single, "forbidden evening" where two young high school graduates find themselves at their teacher's home, leading to the development of an intense and unsettling relationship among the trio. This "Kammerspiel" style film masterfully delves into crucial themes of power dynamics, the unsettling boundaries of intimacy, and a profound questioning of social norms. Produced with a remarkably modest budget, the film's strength lies in its focused character interactions and its ability to create a psychologically charged atmosphere. While its widespread critical acclaim is still emerging, Stay a little longer stands as a thought-provoking and artistically driven debut, appealing to audiences who appreciate intense, independent cinema that dares to explore complex and sensitive human connections.
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