Emil und die Detektive: New film adaptation of Kästner classic

A new film adaptation of Erich Kästner’s classic children's book, ‘Emil und die Detektive’, is scheduled for theatrical release on September 24. Directed by David Dietl, the production modernizes the 1929 story by setting the action in contemporary Berlin, featuring elements such as e-scooters and a cameo by TikTok star Zah1de.

The plot follows young Emil Tischbein, played by Nicholas Jonah Peter, who travels to Berlin and has his money stolen by a thief named Max Grundeis (played by Merlin Sandmeyer) during a train ride. Emil, alongside a group of new Berlin friends including Pony (Lara Toni Lüdders) and Gustav (Kilian Kasa), works to track down the criminal.

This version marks the first major adaptation of the literary classic in 25 years. The production aims to bridge generations by updating character dynamics, such as including more female characters, while maintaining the core themes of the original work.