MANFRED KRUG: Defected

Manfred Krug, born in Duisburg in 1937, was an exceptional artist: actor, singer, and entertainer. With his sharp wit, musical versatility, and unshakable charisma, he captivated millions of people in the GDR and later in the Federal Republic. In November 1976, he was one of the prominent signatories of the open letter against the expatriation of Wolf Biermann – with far-reaching consequences. Surveillance and grueling repression ultimately forced him to leave the country. In the 32 days between submitting his application and his departure, he recorded his thoughts in a diary. Ludwig Blochberger gives voice to these memories. Together with the musicians of the Goin' Out West Quintet, he creates a moving homage to a special artist.