Watch Das Pferd auf dem Balkon

Das Pferd auf dem Balkon is a charming Austrian family film from 2012 about a young boy named Mika who develops an unlikely friendship with a horse named Ostwind. Mika, who suffers from Asperger's Syndrome, lives with his father in Vienna and is fascinated with astronomy, trains, and animals, which he studies obsessively. He is a curious and imaginative child who is afraid of heights and social situations.

One day while sitting on his balcony, Mika discovers a horse on the balcony of the apartment next door. The horse, named Ostwind, is being kept there by a neighbor who wants to hide it from her abusive husband, who is a horse trainer. Mika becomes intrigued with the horse and starts leaving fruits and vegetables for it on his balcony. Eventually, Mika learns to communicate with the horse, and they form an unlikely bond.

Mika and his father are struggling financially, and Mika's father is hesitant to let him keep visiting the horse as it could lead to potentially dangerous situations with the neighbor's husband. However, Mika is determined to protect the horse and help it escape from its captivity. Together with his best friend Dana, who has a passion for horses, Mika comes up with a daring plan to save Ostwind and set it free.

The movie is filled with heartwarming scenes that are sure to entertain children and adults alike. It offers an imaginative portrayal of the world from the perspective of a child with Asperger's Syndrome and celebrates the power of friendship and the pursuit of one's passions. Director Hüseyin Tabak infuses the film with a warm palette and a playful visual style to create a magical world that engages the viewer's imagination.

The performances of the lead actors are outstanding. Enzo Gaier, who portrays Mika, gives a nuanced and heartfelt performance, capturing the innocence and enthusiasm of the character. Andreas Kiendl, who plays Mika's father, conveys the complexities of a single parent struggling to provide for his son in a world that is often hostile and difficult. Nora Tschirner also delivers an excellent performance as Dana, Mika's loyal friend who helps him in his mission to rescue Ostwind.

Overall, Das Pferd auf dem Balkon is an enchanting film that celebrates the power of imagination, friendship, and overcoming obstacles. It is a moving and engaging family film that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.