Adele Neuhauser in "Makellos": A Brief, Dreamy Wave of Happiness to Savor
When Adele Neuhauser and Manuel Rubey appear together on screen, we Austrians just know: something magical is about to happen. That's exactly what happened on Tuesday evening when "Makellos" flickered across our televisions. And yes, the title delivers on its promise—at least for the duration of this one, brief wave of happiness that leaves you dreaming long after.
What exactly is "Makellos" about?
The story sends two people on an encounter that changes everything. Neuhauser plays a woman unlike any we've seen from her before: vulnerable, witty, with a longing for perfection that threatens to tear her apart. Rubey, who's also made a name for himself in recent years as a writer and musician, is her perfect counterpart: laid-back, charming, but with a deep crack in his soul. Together, they form an explosive pair wandering through Vienna—the city is more than just a backdrop here; it's the third lead character.
The film's highlights: Why it hits you right in the feels
What makes "Makellos" so special is the lightness with which it touches on heavy themes. It's about loss, loneliness, the fear of failure. And yet you find yourself smiling the whole time, because the dialogue is delightfully Viennese-offbeat, and the two leads share a chemistry that only comes around once in a blue moon.
- The script: It's smart, sharp, and has that particular humour we love here—dry, but never cynical.
- The cinematography: Vienna captured in its most beautiful moments. No postcard clichés, but real, breathing neighbourhoods you instantly recognize.
- The soundtrack: As a self-confessed music fan, Rubey surely had a hand in this—the songs perfectly underscore every mood without being intrusive.
- The ending: (Slight spoiler alert) It's not your typical happy ending, but one that lingers. Like the feeling when you come home after a beautiful day at the lake: content, happy, but also a little wistful.
How to best enjoy "Makellos": A little guide
The question many are asking now: How do you properly enjoy this film? Simple: alone or with someone, with a good cup of tea (or a glass of wine), phone put away, and just let yourself go. "Makellos" isn't a film for passive background viewing; it's one you need to feel. Its concise runtime of about 90 minutes is perfect for a cozy evening—you'll find yourself lingering afterwards, letting the images sink in. Reactions are flooding social media: "Finally, an Austrian film that's not embarrassing but actually really good!" And indeed, the enthusiasm is palpable.
My verdict: A delightful comedy with depth
Adele Neuhauser proves once again that she can do more than just play the grumpy "Tatort" detective; she has comedic talent that's completely believable. Manuel Rubey is the ideal partner for her—together they create that rare kind of magic that makes a film unforgettable. If you missed "Makellos," head straight to the network's streaming library! Because gems like this shouldn't be missed. It's an ode to the imperfect, and that's precisely why it touches you so flawlessly.