The Child I Never Was (2002)

"The Child I Never Was" (German: "Ein Leben lang kurze Hosen tragen") is a German drama film directed by Florian Eichinger. Released in 2002, the film is based on the true story of Jürgen Bartsch, a notorious German serial killer who committed a series of murders in the 1960s. The story centers around Jürgen, a young boy growing up in post-World War II Germany. Jürgen's upbringing is marked by neglect and abuse, which eventually leads him to develop violent and sadistic tendencies. The film explores the psychological and social factors that contribute to Jürgen's descent into a disturbed and dangerous individual. As Jürgen's crimes escalate, the film delves into the dark and disturbing aspects of his psyche. It examines the influences of his troubled childhood, the societal indifference towards his behavior, and the gradual unraveling of his sanity. "The Child I Never Was" presents a chilling and unsettling portrayal of a disturbed individual and the impact of his actions on those around him. The film delves into themes of trauma, psychological damage, and the societal failures that allow such individuals to go unchecked. Florian Eichinger's direction offers a stark and unflinching look at Jürgen's life and crimes, providing a thought-provoking exploration of the human capacity for evil. The film features a strong performance by Eric Caravaca, who portrays Jürgen with a haunting intensity, capturing the complexity of his character and the darkness within him.
• Tags: lgbt, storytelling, violence, sadomasochism, traumatic event, psychological, age difference