Every year, "Das Traumschiff" sails onto television screens on the second Christmas holiday, continuing its beloved tradition. This year, after exploring beautiful Argentina, Captain Max Parger, played by Florian Silbereisen, and his crew set course for the Hudson Valley, located on the eastern side of the United States. Here, they celebrate the 70th birthday of none other than Reeder Hendrik Hansen, who invites his rather dysfunctional family aboard for the occasion.
The initial excitement quickly turns to tension for the crew as they prepare for the arrival of not just the birthday celebration but the family drama expected on board. Oskar Schifferle, portrayed by Harald Schmidt, is particularly eager, having planned an extravagant welcome for the reeder. To his dismay, Hendrik is not on deck upon their arrival, leaving Oskar to greet his daughter, Frederike Hansen, alongside her estranged husband Daniel Peterson and their daughter Lilly.
“My father doesn’t take kindly to such overtures,” Frederike dryly remarks, hinting at the strained relationships within the family. The audience learns early on of the family dysfunction, particularly Frederike’s fractured marriage with Daniel, which she prefers to keep under wraps, fearing their father’s reaction. This sense of “Opa Angst” looms large as Frederike struggles to maintain the façade of family unity, even as sibling rivalries flare over questions of inheritance and leadership of the family shipping company.
At the luxurious estate along the Hudson, the family drama intensifies. Only the granddaughter Lilly, played by Alissa Lazar, seems to grasp the underlying chaos, humorously admitting, “I have to write down when to lie to whom.” Her relationship with her grandfather hints at the more complex layers of family secrets, particularly as she discovers he, too, has burdens to bear.
While tensions brew, "Das Traumschiff" retains its lighthearted charm, infused with wit thanks to guest stars Wigald Boning and the always entertaining Harald Schmidt. Schmidt’s portrayal of Oskar adds quite the comedic flair, as the nervously dancing cruise director offers delightful commentary throughout the episode, including his memorable quips. At one point, he raises Hendrik’s portrait over the fireplace with seemingly overambitious pride, resulting in more comedic moments as the lightheartedness complements the drama.
One standout humorous moment features Oskar’s nod to the infamous Titanic incident, declaring dramatically, “Let’s pretend we are the Titanic. And we have only one way to avoid the iceberg.” It’s moments like these, laced with banter, which provide the hallmark of the Traumschiff experience.
Meanwhile, the staff captain, Martin Grimm, played by Daniel Morgenroth, grapples with his past indiscretions involving alcohol and their modern-day consequences. While striving for redemption and hoping for promotion, he faces rejection from Hendrik, which only escalates the emotional stakes. His efforts at reconciliation, encouraged by Hanna Liebhold (Barbara Wussow), run against the old patriarch’s stern disposition. Their interactions highlight themes of regret and aspiration set against the backdrop of family secrets.
Through it all, the episode juxtaposes humor with serious undertones, reflecting on relationships challenged by past mistakes and present expectations. The family struggles are relatable, particularly as viewers witness the dynamics between Frederike and her brother Jasper Hansen, exacerbated by their father's firm expectations for leadership. Jasper, represented by Marc Schöttner, digs his heels in, letting numbers dictate his caution, contrasting sharply with Frederike’s more impulsive approach.
The episode's tension resolves around the Christmas dinner table, where secrets are destined to be revealed, heartfelt connections may be re-established, and the characters must navigate their relationships amid the festive chaos.
Wigald Boning appears not only as part of the crew but also brings his unique comedic style to the scene as he plays the barber, delightfully assisting passengers with more than just hair care. “Three chords are entirely sufficient for Blues. Upon four, it’s Jazz,” he states, adding yet another layer of humor to the narrative.
Fans eagerly await how the family will communicate their truths and resolve their issues during the holiday festivities. The interplay of repartee and heartfelt exchanges resonates with the audience, depicting family gatherings fraught with unspoken tensions yet brimming with potential for reconciliation. Everyone anticipates how the episode will be received, especially after recent ratings dips. Will audiences embrace this blend of family drama, secrets, and laughs as much as they have before?
Just like the holiday season itself, "Das Traumschiff’s" Christmas special promises layers of warmth, humor, and the often complicated realities of family life. Tune in to see if the Hansen family can find joy amid their chaos this year!
