‘It’s wonderful that this film exists and that Timo Jacobs made it exactly the way it is. Overall, it seems as though something might be stirring in the German independent cinema scene, which has felt almost nonexistent for decades—something that Jacobs’ mentor Lemke probably dreamed of for a long time.’ ‘It’s wonderful that this film exists and that Timo Jacobs made it exactly the way it is.’

Jochen Werner / Filmstarts

In "Impostors and Ponies," Justine deceitfully deprived Casper of his rightful credits, leaving him uncredited in the movie adapted from his script. To mend his wounded pride and sensitivities, Casper embarks on a journey in search of a rueful admission of Justine's guilt, hoping to set his inner life back on track.

The antagonist, Ritchie Burns, embodies "the dark side of the moon," witnessing his family lineage cheated by Justine Laser. Her vegan activism strips him of his right to enjoy a T-bone steak or a hamburger, symbolizing the clash of values and identities.

Veganism serves as a thematic parallel to Casper in "Impostors and Ponies," akin to how antifascism resonates with Tarantino in "Inglourious Basterds." Both indulge in weaving together rusty thought patterns to challenge conventional norms and provoke reactions from entrenched ideologies. A mashup of pop art in our society serves as a reflective mirror to understand our current state, while also providing a great deal of enjoyment.

For me, it's essential to examine where our values lie. I detest excessive pride and selfishness, and this film serves as a poignant reminder of life's true priorities. It encourages viewers to embrace their humanity and navigate the complexities of constant change, fostering a deeper understanding of what it means to be human and the importance of embracing constant change within it.