“VENA” – A film about motherhood, dependency and the path back to oneself

VENAthe impressive feature film debut of director and screenwriter Chiara Fleischhacker, takes us on an emotional journey into the life of a young woman who fights against all odds for a new life and for herself. The film tells the story of Jenny, who unexpectedly becomes a mother in the midst of addiction and a difficult relationship. But what for many would be a reason for joy triggers ambivalent feelings in Jenny – life has already demanded many challenges of her, and the thought of her child’s future holds both hope and fear.

A fight against darkness and for love

Jenny, played by the remarkable newcomer Emma Nova, is faced with the task of not only taking responsibility for the child inside her, but also confronting her own demons. Trapped in a life of addiction and dependency, she comes under increasing pressure. Her relationship with Bolle, himself heavily addicted, suffers under the strain, and both are confronted with an everyday life in which the search for the next high is often the only constant. Into this world suddenly steps Marla, an experienced family midwife, who is placed at Jenny’s side.

A new path with unexpected support

Marla, played by Friederike Becht, brings with her the willingness to see Jenny as a person and a mother – beyond the drug addiction and prejudices that define her in the eyes of others. Through this encounter, a new path begins to open up for Jenny: With Marla’s help and support, the courage grows in her to take responsibility and face her fears. It is a powerful, often painful process that repeatedly pushes Jenny to her limits, but with every hurdle, a little more light returns to her life.

Hope and self-forgiveness – the core of “VENA”

The connection between Jenny and Marla becomes the nucleus of a change that forms the heart of the film. VENA not only focuses on a tragic biography, but also shows the universal need for closeness, trust and the chance of a new beginning. With every scene, the film draws the audience deeper into the conflicts and hopes of the protagonist, who searches for her place in the world between love, guilt and forgiveness.

An authentic look at the way back to life

With Jenny, Chiara Fleischhacker succeeds in creating a character who embodies hope and fragility in equal measure. The authentic images, raw dialog and emotional depth lend the story a touching intensity that lingers for a long time. VENA is more than a movie about the consequences of addiction and a life on the margins of society – it is a movie about the power of self-forgiveness, the importance of human connection and the paths we take to find ourselves again.

Movie data