Original subtitles

Our homeland

is not only the cities and villages.

CITY OF POSSNECK

YOUTH DEDICATION CEREMONY 1979

Our homeland is the grass in the meadow,

the grain in the field,

the birds in the air and the animals of this earth.

SOCIALISM: YOUR WORLD

And the fish in the river are our homeland.

And we love our beautiful homeland.

Freeze or we'll shoot!

CONSTITUTION OF THE GERMAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

I said shoot!

Shoot!

Our homeland...

And we protect it, because it belongs to the people.

Because it belongs to the people.

Clap like you mean it. That's your son up there.

He looks like he's having the time of his life.

Thank you, children.

Sing along next time. Maybe you'll have more fun.

Watch it. You've only got one dad. I can make a new son anytime.

Yeah, and maybe he'll laugh at your jokes.

Goethe said that every day, we should hear one pretty song,

read one poem,

see one fine painting

and speak a few sensible words.

But perhaps Lenin put it best:

"Learn, learn, learn.”

Today, we recognize you

as adult members of society,

with all of the rights this entails.

Wait for the pointer finger.

And the responsibilities.

Society will demand more from you now.

Just as you have always been able to count on us,

now, we will be counting on you,

whether you take up a hammer, stethoscope, scythe

Or even a weapon in the name of freedom and socialism.

This little blue card is of great value.

Not only does it mean you can order three beers in any bar,

it means you're now responsible for your own actions.

And rest assured:

We'll never lose sight of you.

What a relief.

I'd like to ask all our 8th grade students

to stand as we pledge our allegiance to socialism.

Are you ready,

as young citizens of the German Democratic Republic,

to fight and work for the great and noble cause of socialism

and to protect the revolutionary innovations of its people?

If so, then answer with...

Yes, we pledge.

Negotiations with the Soviet Union are underway...

Meissner gave such a lovely speech. He always does.

And you sang well.

This weather is just delightful.

Do you hear that, Beate?

So when are you busting out of here?

What? - For vacation. Where are you going?

Oh. - We're going abroad.

To Bulgaria and the Black Sea.

Nothing but the best.

Don't tell me you haven't booked yet.

If only it were that easy.

Now you're starting to make me mad.

Just go see your neighbors

and say, "Erik, I want to go on vacation.”

And then I'll ask, "Where to?" And you'll say...

Say something!

Come on, tell me where you'd like to go.

I don't really know.

Say something really hard to get, like...

Berlin.

Capital of the German Democratic Republic.

Go on. Say something.

I mean, Berlin would be wonderful.

See? And all I have to do is make one phone call

to our comrades in the Travel Bureau, and bam!

The Strelzyk family has a room at the Hotel Stadt Berlin.

And not in some low-level, group-rate room.

You'd be all the way at the top, looking out over West Berlin.

Isn't that right, Beate? - That's right.

I always pack binoculars.

Those are my balloons! Give them back.

The Ministry for State Security thanks you for the ride.

I really was in no shape to drive.

No problem, Mr. Baumann.

Mr. and Mrs. Trommers. Perfect timing.

Do you have plans today? - I'm afraid so.

From now on... just call me Erik.

What an awesome present.

What a cute couple.

I like your new watch too.

Look! They're flying into the West!

That's what we call a violation of airspace.

But don't worry. They're only balloons.

The wind has changed. We need to go see Günter.

Listen, Fitscher, Dad and I will be right back.

Want to come over? - Yes! Why don't you all come?

Great idea. - Today is a day of celebration.

Unfortunately... - Don't be a spoilsport, Peter.

Not today.

Where are you going?

We have to go to the station to pick up my mother-in-law.

But maybe later.

I'll hold you to it.

Did you see my new watch?

Whoa! It's even got a stopwatch.

I want one for my 8th grade graduation too.

Ready, set, go!

It's too risky.

What?

Are you kidding me?

It's not going to work.

But Günter, you planned the whole thing.

It was your idea.

The balloon is ready, all we have to do is get in.

I did all the calculations. It's too dangerous.

We've been waiting weeks for the wind to change.

Now it has. We won't get a better chance.

The balloon isn't big enough.

It's too small for eight people.

I don't believe it.

What about your mother?

You wanted to go over to be with her.

I know, but...

The kids are still so small. If anything happened to them...

I just can't take that chance.

Trust me, Peter,

that thing won't hold us all.

So...

What now?

We're staying here.

Will it hold four people?

Yes, that'll work.

Oh my God.

So what are you going to do?

We'll have to cut ties regardless.

Otherwise, it'll mean trouble for you. No calls, no letters.

Daddy!

How was it with your grandparents? - We flew kites in the clouds.

Oh, hello. You have visitors.

Our friends, Doris and Peter.

Hi. I'm the evil stepfather.

We were on our way out. - Stay. He's just trying to be cute.

I made a roast.

She makes the world's best roast.

Sorry, but we've got to run. It's youth dedication day.

Good luck.

I'm going to jail.

It's only a game.

Is it happening?

Is what happening? - Go to your room, Fitscher.

What's going... - We need to talk to Frank alone.

But why can't I... - Sweetheart, go.

That's dumb. I won't tell you anything anymore either.

What's going on?

They're not coming.

What? Why not?

We're doing it alone.

Tonight.

Really?

Without Günter? - We'll listen to the weather at 6 PM.

If it's clear, I'll drive up and check conditions.

Until then, we pack.

I guess I should get changed.

We're doing the right thing.

Promise me the kids will be safe.

Trust me.

DEAR KLARA,

I'LL PROBABLY NEVER SEE YOU AGAIN.

I'VE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH YOU...

I'm sorry about earlier.

It was supposed to be a surprise.

We're going camping tonight.

Really? Where?

In the woods.

I'll go get Fitscher.

Can I take my bike?

What do you want to do with your bike in the woods at night?

I can go over roots like a BMX rider.

What are you doing?

Cleaning up.

We're not coming back, Doris.

As a kid, I used to cry into my pillow at summer camp.

That's how much it hurt.

I was so incredibly homesick.

The other kids got over it in a couple of days. But mine lasted...

until I got back home.

What took you so long?

We were just tidying up.

I don't want anyone to say I was a bad housewife.

Just keep driving.

Assholes.

Damn it.

Our armed forces

must always be prepared to counter provocation from class enemies...

They've drafted Paul's son too.

Maybe Günter will get lucky.

They overlook people.

They won't overlook me. I'm not that lucky.

Well, it happened to Werner.

What are you talking about?

He didn't show, so they picked him up.

Who picked him up? - The military patrol.

They pounded on his door at 6 AM and dragged him out.

That's what your sister said. - I had no idea.

If you work in a field that's important for the country, like in industry,

they won't draft you.

I drive an ambulance, and not by choice.

I'm still mad they didn't let him study physics.

He was five when his father defected.

As if he had anything to do with it.

I'll go check on the baby. - Mom.

Coming. - I'll come with you.

Your mother is worried about you.

So am I.

Don't be.

Your mother always has the most wonderful smile

when you're doing well.

That means it's your responsibility to make sure you're happy.

That's what the people who love you want most.

Are you happy?

Of course I am.

I have a little house,

a little garden.

I have your mother and you guys.

That's all I ever wanted.

But you don't have to want what I want.

You've still got your whole life ahead of you.

Not a word to your mother.

I've never heard you talk like this before.

You won't hear it again.

What are you doing? - That's the surprise.

I thought we were camping.

This is better than camping.

We're going to the West.

What if the soldiers shoot us down?

When we get there, you can have a real BMX bike.

Really? - It's a promise.

We're ready.

Get In.

Hold on tight to the ropes.

Don't let go, no matter what happens.

We're good to go.

Ready? - Yes.

One, two, three.

Mommy, I want to get out. - Don't worry, sweetie. It'll be fun.

One, two, three.

Frank, can you start your stopwatch?

Is everyone OK?

We're nearly 300 meters up.

We're much too bright.

Someone's sure to see us.

We have to get up higher.

Above the clouds.

I'm cold.

Come here.

What's our altitude now?

1,700 meters.

What's our flight time?

14 minutes.

Then we're about halfway there.

Let me know if we start sinking.

Mommy, I'm scared.

When I was your age, I used to lie in meadows

and look at the clouds.

Once, I saw a cloud

that looked like a giant leaping horse.

I wished I could ride it,

and it would take me wherever I wanted to go.

And now look where we are.

In the middle of a cloud.

Don't let anyone tell you dreams don't come true.

Something is dripping.

The air is really damp.

It's probably because of the cloud.

Is this fabric waterproof?

Once it's wet, we'll get really heavy.

What's our altitude now?

1,700 meters.

That's all?

It's stuck.

Damn it. We're sinking.

700...

We're going down much too quickly.

That's the border.

Are we over it?

600...

Come on!

What are you doing? - We have to thaw it out.

Light it! Fast!

I don't want to die.

Hurry!

Try it again.

Try it again! Light it!

Is everyone okay?

Frank? Doris?

I'm okay.

Are you hurt? - No, I'm okay.

Where are we?

How long were we airborne?

32 minutes.

Was it long enough?

It must've been.

Just a few meters more. And we'd have made it.

What now?

What happens if they find us?

Let's get out of here.

We need to get back to the car, before they find it.

It's a good 10 kilometers from here.

This whole area could be booby-trapped.

We have to wait until it's light.

RESTRICTED AREA! ALL ACCESS STRICTLY PROHIBITED!

It's a tow truck.

They must have found our car.

We need to get rid of all this.

I can't believe how lucky we were.

It's just insane.

We can thank our lucky stars it wasn't worse.

Doris, please. Let's not be hasty.

We'll find a way to keep at it.

We're not going to keep at it.

We nearly made it.

It's over, Peter.

That was it.

We have to sit tight now.

You'll go to school, and we'll go to work.

We'll act as if nothing happened.

It will blow over eventually.

Does that mean I'm not getting a BMX bike?

I hope we're not disturbing you.

Would you be willing to decorate your house

in honor of the GDR's 30th anniversary?

Do you have a flag?

If you don't, we'll get you one.

Comrade Lieutenant Colonel. I'm Lieutenant Strehle.

So you're responsible for the border here? - Correct.

What a thing to wake up to in the morning.

I wish I could sleep as well as you do.

The construction is solid.

How long has it been here?

Not long.

The grass beneath it is still fresh.

I'm guessing since last night.

We found these pills next to the basket.

Pass them on to the medical team.

Send the rest to forensics.

The whole balloon? - All of it.

Search everything within 500 meters.

I want a paper trail on every last shred of evidence.

And I mean everything, even the rabbit shit.

Of course, Lieutenant Colonel.

I need troops to search the area.

Can we trace the gas canisters? - No.

The serial numbers were removed.

They were no idiots.

A hell of an effort.

Another 200 meters and they'd have been in the West.

They must be kicking themselves.

Why don't we just let them go?

Since they think they'd be so much happier over there.

Doesn't it make you wonder, Lieutenant?

Honestly, Lieutenant Colonel? No.

There's no harm in asking, is there?

"Every attempt must be hindered. Shoot if necessary.”

Yes, I know the orders.

I just wonder what we did to provoke such criminal behavior?

All we want is justice for all.

A little brotherly love, a better world.

We should be grateful that the enemies of socialism want to leave.

Isn't it better to be free of the riffraff?

Is that a serious question? - Yes.

Surely, you have an opinion.

What's your opinion?

You see?

Not so easy, is it?

Who would we be without the border?

It defines us.

Anyone who violates it, violates us.

You and me.

Let's hope that at least one of the border guards saw something.

I take this matter very personally.

As do I, Lieutenant Colonel.

Good.

They could've launched from anywhere.

Any of these clearings would do.

It continues on like this

for another 200 kilometers to the Czechoslovakian border.

Who'd have thought we had so much beautiful forest?

Hey.

I just wanted to make sure everything is okay.

Is everything okay?

Yes.

Everything is fine.

Why?

Well...

You guys never came by last night.

So I thought...

maybe something happened to your mother-in-law.

Where is she?

She's not doing well at all.

She fainted at the station.

We had to take her to the hospital in Gera.

We were there for hours.

I bet that's not how you'd envisioned the day.

No. - What's wrong with your hands?

I slipped.

When it rains, it pours.

Now, there's something I've got to ask you.

You're a tinkerer, right?

Actually, I'm an electrician. - Right.

We finally got a color TV. The picture is just great.

Only, on some channels, the reception is...

kind of lousy.

You want to watch West German TV?

Think we can?

Don't you enjoy a little "Charlie's Angels” every now and then?

All you have to do is stick a PAL decoder to the antenna.

Then you'll really see what the Angels have to offer.

Think you could take a look when you get a chance?

Of course.

Excellent.

But you're not supposed to lie, are you?

You're right. Lying is bad.

So why have you been lying to me this whole time?

What makes you say that?

You never tell me the truth.

Fitscher, the truth...

is sometimes complicated.

Sometimes, we can't just tell the truth here.

By "here," I mean in our country.

People have rights... - That's not what I mean.

What if we went via Czechoslovakia and Hungary? It's been done before.

Maybe someone will help us.

The four of us won't fit in a trunk.

What about the West German Mission in East Berlin? - It's watched more closely than the U.S. Embassy.

Then let's try the U.S. Embassy.

The Americans help get people out who are being politically persecuted.

If we could make contact, we might have a chance.

An old woman in East Berlin goes up to a police officer and says,

"I'm looking for Principle's department store.”

"Principle's? We don't have those here.”

"Sure you do," says the woman. "You must have at least one.

State Council Chairman Erich Honecker said, 'In Principle, you can buy everything."

It can be dangerous if the wrong people hear you making jokes like that.

But I shared it with you, because I trust you.

And you can trust us.

We didn't tell you everything, because we wanted to protect you.

Do you understand?

Is everything okay?

My medication.

What about it?

I left...

I left the bag of pills...

I must've lost it in the woods.

Is your name on it?

No, but the prescriptions are numbered.

They can be traced.

They'll check all the prescriptions.

And our fingerprints are on the basket.

What were we thinking?

What kind of parents are we?

We're not bad parents, Doris.

We just had bad luck.

Bad luck.

Bad luck?

We were reckless.

It's reckless to stay here.

We've always wanted the boys to grow up free.

We risked our children's lives.

This is our dream. - I trusted you.

Think of our dream. - You know what's in my dreams?

When I close my eyes, all I see is our kids being taken from us.

They sent my brother to jail at 14, because he tried to leave.

They knocked out all his teeth... - I know.

That's exactly why we want to leave. - Can you imagine what they'll do to us?

They'll make us disappear.

They'll put Fitscher in an orphanage.

I don't want to lose my kids.

I don't want to go to an orphanage.

Come here, sweetheart. - I don't want to go.

Not to worry.

We'll take care of you.

There, there. No one is going to an orphanage.

We're going to see this thing through.

BANK

Good morning, Doris. - Good morning.

Are you okay?

The kids are under the weather.

I didn't sleep a wink last night.

You poor thing.

Want a chocolate drop?

Stay seated.

It's much nicer in here, isn't it?

There's no need to use the interrogation room.

Congratulations. You've nearly completed your service.

Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel.

I expect you want to go on to study.

And now you've had this little episode...

Just to be sure I understand correctly:

You asked your supervisor for a pair of binoculars.

That's right. I saw something in the sky.

Why didn't you have your own pair?

I mean... - It happens.

Maybe you left them lying around.

Why didn't you give him a pair of binoculars?

Were you going off duty?

Calling it a day?

Mentally already home with your new girl?

Looking at me, you might not be able to tell,

but I used to be a swimmer.

During my student days, I did a little work as a lifeguard.

I had this colleague, a friend of mine.

He was tan and good looking.

A real laid-back guy.

But one day...

he was a little too laid back.

But what do you say to the parents of a drowned eight-year-old?

"T was tired"?

I marked a passage for you.

Read it out loud.

"You are obligated to use your abilities as a soldier and border patrolman

to stop anyone attempting to cross the border.

The intended violation is to be thwarted either by apprehension or liquidation.

Proceed decisively and consistently,

as experience has proven that traitors are sinister and treacherous in nature.

Do not hesitate to use your firearm,

even when the border is breached in the company of women and children,

which is a tactic the traitors have often used.”

You understand your duty.

You know what you're supposed to do in cases like this.

You're not stupid.

Yes, sir.

Yet you still ignored Private Klenner's message.

Maybe because you knew of the attempt.

NO.

I had no idea. - Or do you think he was just being lazy?

If you were an accessory to an attempted defection, just say so.

We'll find out anyway.

NO.

Why me? I... - Dismissed.

Comrade Sergeant...

You see, comrades?

This is exactly what I'm talking about.

Take them away.

We'll be taking a look inside Europe on the news at 9:10 PM.

Look! There it is!

Would you look at that? She's a redhead.

She looks like a brunette in black and white. - Right.

The whole thing sure is colorful. - Sure is.

If you ever get stir-crazy over there, just come on over,

and we'll cozy up to those Angels.

I owe you one, Peter.

Erik.

I nearly forgot.

You mentioned your comrades at the Travel Bureau.

Does the offer still stand?

Where do you want to go?

The report says the balloon was made on a professional-grade sewing machine.

We're having sewing samples

sent to us from factories that come into question.

Judging by the balloon's size

and the amount of gas, our comrades estimate

the balloon wasn't airborne for more than 40 minutes.

Based on wind patterns that night, we can assume

they launched from somewhere in here.

I take it the entire area is being searched.

Well, it's enormous. There are about 100 clearings...

What else? - A truck was seen driving around that night.

Maybe it was their ride to the launch site.

Let's find the driver. What about fabric shops?

We're getting a list today.

This thyroid medication might be a lead.

Our medical experts estimate the woman is between 30 and 40 years old.

She may be overweight with a noticeable surgical scar across her throat.

Holy cow.

Impressive.

Not bad.

Check it out!

We'll have to write the neighbors a thank you card.

So how do we go about finding the embassy? - We need to be inconspicuous.

Is that the West over there?

Yes.

It's so close, isn't it?

U.S. EMBASSY

Here. It's close by.

"We're being persecuted. Please help us.

We're at the Hotel Stadt Berlin.

Room 3507."

I doubt you can just walk into the U.S. Embassy.

Yes, you can. They've got a library.

Anyone can go in. - We can't talk to anyone,

but we can leave behind a pack of cigarettes.

Why don't we just call them?

Their phones are sure to be tapped.

So then the Americans are just going to come here

and pick us up?

Yes.

Just keep walking.

Damn. They're checking everyone leaving the embassy.

There's Stasi everywhere. Forget about it.

They're watching us.

I think we're totally lost.

Let me have a look at that.

Give me the cigarettes. - What?

The cigarettes.

Distract them.

Frank.

Come on.

Excuse me?

Sorry, can you help us out? We're looking for the Pergamon Museum.

Take Ciara-Zetkin-Str...

all the way to the end. Then make a left.

Which way was that?

How long will it take to get there? - Ten, 15 minutes.

Thank you. - Thanks.

Come on.

We have to go that way. - We're in.

You've lost your minds. - Why? It worked.

That was awesome.

We've got a real swashbuckler in the family. - I'm not so sure I like that.

They'll be out of coffee by the time we get there.

You can forget about apricots. - Not like the good old days...

I hope they don't send him to the border.

What if Günter has to shoot someone? - Don't think like that.

You'll have him back before you know it...

What balloon? - Some people tried to flee in a hot air balloon.

They built it themselves. - Really?

Yes, they came down a few meters from the border.

Who knows whether or not they got caught.

I bet they're rotting in some Stasi jail as we speak...

Am I right?

Yes.

Should we drive over to their place?

If they got caught, it'll be swarming with Stasi.

And we'll be walking right into their hands.

I know it's hard, but we said no contact.

Not knowing what's going on is driving me crazy.

They're our friends. They won't talk.

That's not what I meant.

What if they crashed?

Maybe they made it over after all.

We would've heard about it.

We shouldn't have let them do it.

I'm so scared.

I win!

What?

Like this. One, two, three,

four, five.

Let's play again.

Room service.

Just a second.

Peter!

Run!

Frank!

Hello.

Hello.

Mr. Strelzyk?

Yes.

Something was left for you at the front desk.

I'll be right down.

You stay here and wait.

That goes for you too.

Be careful.

Passport. Passport.

Excuse me...

Did you get our message”?

The pack of cigarettes.

That was us.

Excuse me. I'm Mr. Strelzyk.

Something was left here for me. - Yes, Mr. Strelzyk.

Someone found your wallet by the phone.

Looks like you were lucky.

Don't blame yourself.

We were so close.

We were so close. - I know.

Just a few kilometers more...

Half a kilometer...

300 or 400 meters...

Why couldn't I keep us airborne just a few minutes more?

It wasn't your fault.

Everything I've ever put my mind to...

has somehow worked out.

And now...

Look at me.

We're talking about the most important thing in my life.

You and the kids.

I'm such a failure.

NO.

We were in the air, Dad.

You're not a failure.

That's right.

You got us up there.

We would've made it, if the clouds hadn't gotten the fabric wet.

So what now?

Are we going to wait for the Stasi to show up?

We could build another balloon.

Yeah. Why not?

We don't have that much time.

The last one took two years.

But now we know how it goes.

We can't do it without Günter.

So let's ask him.

They wanted to leave too.

We just need to make a bigger balloon.

They might be right.

You really want to get in another balloon?

No, I don't.

But I'm afraid we must.

We're out of tent nylon, but we have taffeta.

How much do you need? - 200 meters.

I'll have to call the warehouse.

But there are 200 meters right here.

That's true.

Fitscher, let's go. - Why?

Come on.

Come on.

What was that about? - She didn't need to call the warehouse.

The fabric was right there.

They probably have to report anyone buying large quantities.

So we'll have to buy small amounts.

10 meters here, 20 meters there.

We won't even be done by Christmas.

We'll do it in shifts.

If we go in one at a time, and each of us buys 20 meters,

they won't notice.

Petra and Günter could do it too.

We can all go to the same shops, if we time it right.

I guess that's our only option.

We received word from Berlin.

A family tried to buy 200 meters of taffeta.

When the saleswoman went to inform her manager, they ran.

They're trying again.

With another balloon?

They can't be that stupid.

They're not stupid.

Just desperate.

They're getting careless.

That makes our job a bit easier.

Do you think they're from Berlin? - No.

They're from down there. They know the area.

That's why they're taking the shortest route south over the border.

But they need a northerly wind. And it's rare.

You have to be ready to go on a moment's notice.

Oh my God.

Come In.

Now we know the balloon works.

It flew.

But you just said it could catch fire.

And if we run out of gas, we'll crash.

Is there any silver lining?

Yes.

We're too high for them to shoot us down.

I'm afraid of heights. I don't even ride Ferris wheels.

Petra, I know we can do it, if we do it together.

Unfortunately, I just got drafted.

When do you start? - In six weeks.

He doesn't even get weekends off.

Then we'd better move fast.

I can't sew all night long for six weeks.

The Stasi is after us.

They won't rest until they catch us.

They'll find us eventually.

Okay.

If I take sick leave,

I might get it done in six weeks.

But our chances of catching the right wind are slim.

Worst case, you'll just have to leave without me.

I'm not going without you. - I have to be at the barracks by the 16th.

If I don't show, they'll pick me up.

At least you and the kids would be safe.

You'd have the chance to see your mom again.

I can't do it without you.

This time we'll use lightweight umbrella and tent fabric to be on the safe side.

Were you really going to build a plane?

The plane wasn't the problem. - What then?

The take-off strip.

Here it is. I'd already done the calculations.

The balloon needs to have a volume of 4,200 cubic meters,

so we need 1,300 square meters of fabric.

That's more than we can get from the nearby fabric shops.

Try to get segments that are 7, 12 or 15 meters long.

I'll be faster, if I have less to piece together.

If we're lucky, the fan propeller

will still work.

We have to take care of the burner as soon as we can.

We need to solve the pressure issue.

Then all we need is a new basket.

FABRICS

How thick is the basket floor? - 0.8 mm.

What?

That'll never hold us. - Of course it will.

Give it a hop.

That's it.

So, will it hold us? - It will!

Want to come?

I'm going to fly a kite.

I've got things to do.

Can't it wait?

I'm supposed to help my dad.

We're building something. - What is it?

It's a surprise for my mom.

Come on. I can't do it alone.

Just take a little break.

Where are you going?

We've got to get it done this week.

We're just going to fly a kite.

I'll be right back.

All set.

Then I'd best get to it.

Good.

Go!

Isn't it great?

Do you want to hold it?

Do you want to kiss me?

What?

You've got a good 300 people on it, and you give me crap about sewing machines.

Go find those bastards!

At least we've got the full support of the politburo.

We don't need more resources, we need time.

We don't have time. The old dog is right about that.

If they make it, we'll be left

looking like numbskulls

to the rest of the world.

That's not where I thought my career would go.

We might as well try to enjoy the rest of our time in Berlin.

Damn it.

Why can't we keep the gas pressure constant?

Because the canisters freeze.

We need to heat them.

How? It's not like we can attach a heater.

I'm out of ideas.

That's because your mind is elsewhere.

You're not talking about Kiara, are you? - I am.

We're in deep shit, Frank.

But I can still... - No, you can't!

Her dad works for the Stasi.

That's not her fault.

I forbid you to see her again.

Have I made myself clear?

Wait.

What?

I've got it.

We just have to flip the canisters over.

But liquid gas will leak out.

That's okay. It'll just evaporate.

It freezes at the bottom, because it's still a liquid.

That's why there's less pressure.

If we turn the canisters, so the gas comes out the bottom,

we'll get a bigger flame, because the flow is stronger.

It's open. - Okay.

We did it!

What if we don't like it in the West?

We'll never be able to come home again.

I'm sure we'll like it there.

I'll miss my friends.

And we'll never see Grandma and Grandpa again, right?

They'll understand.

Can't we at least tell them goodbye?

No. It's better if they don't know.

Otherwise, they'll go to jail.

Don't worry so much, Fitscher.

You're going to make a lot of new friends.

What's going on? - We have to sew here.

My neighbors are asking questions.

Yeah, and our neighbor works for the Stasi.

Günter will sew quietly.

Want to come to the lake with me?

I can't.

Just the two of us.

I'm sorry, I can't.

What about tomorrow?

When Mommy goes to work, I stay at my home so fine.

I tie an apron round my waist

and sweep until it shines.

Great job, everyone.

It's your turn, Lena.

My mommy works at the post office, and I get to collect stamps.

What about your dad? - So does he.

He works at the post office too? - No! He collects stamps too.

What about you, Peter?

What does your daddy do?

My daddy sews things.

I thought he drove an ambulance.

He does that too, but...

he spends all day at his sewing machine.

Really? - Yes.

What does he sew?

You don't know?

I'm not allowed to say.

You know you can tell me everything, right?

And now for the weather.

We're due for rain in the northern and central regions,

with cloud cover in the south.

Lows are hovering near 11 °C.

Cloudy skies in the south. Showers in the north. Highs are expected...

He has to report for duty at the barracks in five days.

We'll never be done in time.

We'll finish the balloon before Günter has to leave.

But we still need a northerly wind.

It's a lost cause.

He'll go to the army,

and we'll have to fly without him.

My kids will grow up without their father.

Today in kindergarten, they asked the kids

what their parents do for work.

Peter said his daddy sews things.

I told them...

we're sewing a tent so we can go camping.

A tent.

I hate camping.

I can't feel my fingers anymore.

We're halfway there.

He's the world's best sewing machine. - Can you carry me home?

This sewing machine needs sleep. - Of course.

Wait a little longer. The neighbors' light is still on.

We need to think of a reason why they're here so late every night.

It was really such a...

such a nice night!

Sweetheart.

You can't drive.

You're laying it on a bit thick.

How else are they going to hear it?

Sorry, I'm a little clumsy.

Bye, darlings!

Can you please tell me what you're accusing me of?

What do you think it is?

I don't know about any balloon.

How many times do I have to say it?

Face forward.

So your truck broke down.

Yes.

That engine is always giving me trouble.

And spare parts are hard to come by.

So you were stuck on the road in the middle of the night.

What time was that? - Just before 11 PM.

There's not a lot of traffic out there.

Like I said, just one car drove by.

With a trailer.

The tape recorder can't see you.

Yes, with a trailer!

Can you describe the passengers?

It was pretty dark, but...

We're looking for a blue-and-white Wartburg with a trailer, a man, a woman and two kids.

Just like at that fabric shop in Berlin.

Let's shake them up a little.

THE POLICE NEED YOUR HELP

"The police need your help

in solving a serious criminal offense.”

Don't let them get to you. Everybody has stuff like that.

Not many people have doctored barometers.

I say we finish it up and ship out.

But we need more fabric.

How much do you have? - Enough for today.

Maybe tomorrow.

I don't think we should buy more in this area.

We could go to Halle again tomorrow.

Or down to Erfurt.

We can't afford any mistakes.

I thought it was odd how they came in

one after the other and bought the same fabric.

My husband says I've got an eye for things like that.

But he can't see what's right in front of...

What kind of a car was it? - It wasn't a Trabant.

Was it a Wartburg? - Yes, that's it.

It was parked where that comrade is standing now.

You didn't catch the plate, did you?

It started with an "N," so it's from somewhere near Gera.

Are you sure? - Oh, yes.

My niece is from Pößneck. She's got a plate like that too.

I wondered why they were buying fabric here.

They're from the Gera area.

We got the tip from the saleswoman in Naumburg.

And we were able to reconstruct this charred propane tank label.

It's almost certainly from a gas station in Pößneck.

And that's...

right here.

That spot is near a potential launch site.

Schirra needs to put the entire force into place, before everyone leaves for the weekend.

We'll tackle the pills.

Doctors' offices will be closed. - Start with the pharmacies.

In the meantime, I'll try to get a lead on the kids.

You can unpack that again. - What? Why?

The people who built that balloon are apparently from Pößneck.

Are you sure? - Yes.

Our comrades from Gera are on their way.

I'll rally the troops.

Trust me, I know what I'm asking of you.

But I wouldn't do it, if it wasn't my last hope of preventing a catastrophe.

What do you need to know?

Did any of the kids mention anything about their home life?

Anything strange?

Like what?

For instance, that their parents are working on a bigger DIY project.

Or... sewing something.

Who are you?

You have to tell me your name, if you want your ball back.

Peter.

Peter what?

Here, Peter. - Thanks.

Yes, there's been some sewing.

Flags, for instance.

And pennants.

They're for the Republic's 30th anniversary celebration.

Is that so?

Yes.

So many people have gotten involved.

It really makes you proud.

Have you lost your mind?

You might as well send the Stasi an invitation.

We'll never make it in weather like this.

They'll get us in the end.

Look, if this is because

of that Stasi girl... - She's not in the Stasi.

Don't you see you're putting us all in danger?

And for what? A stupid crush? What if you let something slip?

You don't trust me.

Yes, I do.

But I won't let you put our family... - Then leave without me.

Pull yourself together.

There you are. - We have everything we need.

I found a launch site too. - Good.

If the sewing machine holds, I'll be done in two days.

After that, I'll need a week's sleep. - I'll make you some coffee.

PHARMACY

We know of six people taking that thyroid medication.

How many people fill their prescription here?

I'm not sure. - An estimate.

I don't know.

There are between 100 and 200 patients with that diagnosis in the area.

It'd take hours for me to go through it all.

What about the other pharmacies? - There are just two others.

They're much smaller.

Check them both.

We're looking for a tinkerer with a workshop and a sewing machine.

Secure any propane canisters you find.

Go check out the Ahlfeld and Altmann residences at these addresses.

Tonight's storm over Germany will be followed by a cold front.

Temperatures in Bavaria are dropping to 10 °C.

There will be a strong northerly wind this weekend

with speeds of up to 30 km/h.

A northerly wind.

Günter, it's time.

We'll get northerly wind. The day after tomorrow. - What?

I just heard it on the radio.

I'll fill up the gas canisters.

Can you help Günter?

I never thought I'd be this lucky.

I was beginning to see myself in jail.

You're sure it'll hold us all? - Of course.

It could even handle three more.

Hi, Frank.

Are you alone? - Yes.

What's wrong?

If you had the chance to go to the West,

would you take it? Would you come with me?

What are you talking about? - We have room for you.

You want to flee? - You can come if you want.

You just have to choose fast. Today or tomorrow.

What? - I'm serious.

Have you lost your mind?

Hi, Frank.

What are you doing home? - I just forgot my coat.

Are you going to the pharmacy? - Yes, why?

Can you pick up some painkillers? - Will do.

What's he doing at the pharmacy?

Looking for someone.

The Stasi is at the pharmacy looking for someone.

How do you know? - Kiara.

Frank, I told you... - They're checking the prescriptions.

We can't wait until tomorrow.

Can you finish tonight?

You have to.

Someone has to tell Petra.

I'll do it.

Take my moped.

Let's load up the trailer, Fitscher.

PHARMACY

Can we come In?

Did something happen?

Sorry, I forgot my key. Petra is ready.

Who's that?

That's you.

You?

Is that you?

That's your grandma.

That's who we're going to see.

Freeze! Bang, bang! You're dead.

Freeze! Don't move, you traitor!

The wind is getting

a little too strong for my taste, but we'll get there faster.

Unfortunately, I can't get these panels to line up at the top.

That's a giant hole.

If the load tapes are properly knotted, they'll hold the weight.

I'll stick this on top and call it a day.

We're nearly done.

Maybe the saleswoman made a mistake and sent us to the wrong place.

Or they get their medication elsewhere.

We missed something.

Doris Strelzyk.

The Strelzyks? They're our neighbors.

Do they have a car?

A blue Wartburg.

He's got a trailer too, but... - What does he do?

He's an electrician.

A real tinkerer.

Down in the basement!

I saw their son Frank...

I saw him just this afternoon.

Nothing was out of the ordinary.

I mean, there was this guy...

He and his wife were here a lot recently. - Does he have a name?

Wetzel. Günter Wetzel.

Put out a search for a blue Wartburg,

and lock down the exits out of town.

I want you on Wetzel.

Put border patrol on red alert.

We need helicopters.

Our units are moving into position. Copy.

You didn't know about this. Got it?

Where are they?

Hurry.

I have to take care of something first.

Damn it. We'll have to take a detour.

We have to go.

Where do these go? - The trailer.

Shit.

Papers, please.

What's going on here?

Papers, please.

Hold on, I thought I had them...

Also be on the lookout for a family of four with the surname Wetzel.

Paul! Is that a Wartburg with a trailer?

You can keep driving.

Go on. Drive.

Where are they?

What's wrong? - The engine won't start.

The piston stalls when it gets too hot.

So what now? - We push.

And wait for it to cool down.

Lieutenant Colonel! Captain Marz from Border Patrol Squad 46 reporting for duty.

Our patrols in all partner states and regions are on red alert.

What about the choppers? - They're ready to go.

Screw it.

You made it. - I made it.

Are you okay? - Yes.

Good. Grab the tether.

Come with me, Fitscher.

What kept you? - The moped cut out.

Is everything knotted? - I hope so.

I'll start the engine.

Is everyone in position?

We have border patrol on red alert.

They won't get out of here.

Well, look at that.

Let's get the kids.

We've got to move.

Come on.

It's a hot air balloon. Don't be scared.

What about my gloves?

Okay. We're all set.

Ready? - Yes.

One, two, three.

And... cut!

What's wrong?

I can't cut it! - Try again!

Cut it, man! - I dropped the knife.

Pull on the rope!

More!

Watch out!

Fire!

Shit.

Where's the extinguisher?

Are you okay? - I'm fine.

Check my face. - You're bleeding.

They've been spotted near Blankenberg. - That's close to us.

This is 557. I'm heading out towards the border to cover the area. Copy.

Shit.

I see floodlights.

Is that the border?

Maybe.

It's still pretty far.

There. It's right there.

Confirmed. Object spotted in our sector at an altitude of 1,800 meters.

The pipes are freezing.

That's impossible.

We're out of gas. - We needed all the heat we could get.

We're sinking.

This is 557. The object is no longer in sight.

What the hell?

Save some fuel for landing, or we'll crash. - I know. Hold it steady.

It's working.

There it is.

It's all over.

They must've run out of fuel. They won't make it.

Now we've got them. They're going down.

Radio our position.

Search the area and have it cordoned off.

This is Chopper 557 near the border at Blankenstein.

The target is sinking on our side of the border. Copy.

Get in position!

We're going down fast.

There's a power line!

Hold on tight.

Damn it!

Günter! - My leg!

Get out.

Günter.

Let me help you.

I've got him.

Did we make it?

Are we on the other side?

How long were we up there?

28 minutes. - What?

That's it?

That way's south.

Let's take a look.

The rest of you wait here.

Status? - No sign of them yet, Lieutenant Colonel.

What are you doing?

Is this the West?

No. This is Bavaria.

What?

Yes! We're in the West!

We're in the West!

We made it!

Yes!

Come here!

What's the meaning of this?

A hell of an effort.

How many more of them are there?

...of Prague's Lobkowicz Palace.

How many more cold nights must the people stand out here and wait?

That was the question on everyone's mind as Hans-Dietrich Genscher

addressed the representatives in the Ministry of the Interior.

"Freedom!" came the rallying cry from the crowds

as the Foreign Minister appeared after dark

to acknowledge the East German passports.

Fellow Germans, we have come to you...

in order to inform you

that today, your departure...

Tonight, they depart:

five trains headed for freedom.

No one could've anticipated such a fast response.

Scenes of joy...

WE DID IT! THE WALL FALLS!

Can you believe it? If you'd have told me this a year ago,

I'd have called you crazy.

TAKE-OFF SITE

Can we fly somewhere else today?

Sure. Where do you want to go?

I want to go home to see my parents.

I'd like to take my wife. It's time for her to get over her fear of flying.

No time like the present.