Alexander (Ilja Monti) is a gifted young violinist, seemingly on the cusp of his teenage years. His audition to join a prestigious Berlin conservatory leaves most of his potential teachers cold – until Anna (Hoss), a middle-aged violin teacher, overrides their objections and insists the young boy has got what it takes. But when Anna’s belief in the young boy’s ability soon progresses from dedication to obsession, her family life begins to crumble – and Anna soon finds herself close to the edge. The Audition carries shades of both Michael Haneke’s The Piano Teacher and Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash – but Hoss’s virtuoso performances ensures this is very much its own film.

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