Opening 7 Jun 2007
Directed by:
Herdolor Lorenz
Writing credits:
Herdolor Lorenz, Leslie Franke
In this documentary Germans Leslie Franke and Herdolor Lorenz show why the German train system should remain under state possession and control. They describe the British rail system which has been privatized. As a result, many different companies control small segments with little coordination and communication, which leads to bad service, undependable schedules and more accidents,. No one feels responsible for good work and repairs; only the money counts. They compare this with the Swiss system which is still state owned. Trains run exactly on time; they are coordinated so that passengers can change quickly and efficiently; they service every corner of the country and are inexpensive and safe. This should be a no-brainer for German politicians, but it isn’t. They are gearing up to sell out the Bundesbahn to the highest bidder, or even any bidder, in fact selling it under cost. Already tracks and train stations are being abandoned. Companies are forced to move their stock via trucks on the Autobahn, adding to traffic jams. Franke and Lorenz say that the government is doing more for the stock market than for the customer. Their film is a well-made warning, which may fall on deaf ears. (Becky Tan)
