"Essen is different" is a cinematic portrait of one of Germany's largest cities. The film takes us through Essen's city history, which began in the early Middle Ages and was closely linked to church history. The first coal discoveries in the 14th century heralded industrialisation and the unparalleled triumph of coal. The subsequent structural change presented the city with completely new challenges at the end of the 20th century.
The film also shows facets of the city of Essen that may seem surprising and new even to connoisseurs. Presenter Torsten Knippertz takes viewers to characteristic buildings, visits typical festivals and events, introduces working and natural areas known far beyond the region and lets citizens and officials explain their views of the city.
Impressive copter shots and elaborate time-lapse sequences round off the city portrait with unusual perspectives.
90 min running time; language German;