Promising the Moon Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Promising the Moon
| Movie | Promising the Moon |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| Director | Hans Steinbichler |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 99 minutes (1h 39m) |
| Language | DE |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Promising the Moon (2011) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Promising the Moon are led by Hannelore Elsner . The supporting cast, including Juliane Köhler and Karoline Herfurth , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Promising the Moon does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Promising the Moon has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Promising the Moon
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2011, Promising the Moon is a Drama film directed by Hans Steinbichler, written by Robert Thayenthal. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Hannelore Elsner as Marga Baumanis.
Ending Explained: Promising the Moon
Promising the Moon Ending Explained: Throughout her life Marga has shown little feeling for her daughter Sofia. Directed by Hans Steinbichler, this 2011 drama film stars Hannelore Elsner (Marga Baumanis), alongside Juliane Köhler as Sofia Schleier, Karoline Herfurth as Young Marga Baumanis, Niklas Kohrt as Juris Baumanis. Rated 5.6/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of Promising the Moon?
Throughout her life Marga has shown little feeling for her daughter Sofia. But now she reveals fear, wounds and a deep longing for her long-deceased husband Juris. She becomes increasingly lost in her forgetfulness and suddenly demands, like a child, gentleness. It’s an uncomfortable situation for Sofia who must now take care of her mother. Sofia’s growing realization that Marga’s past also affects her own gives Sofia impetus to make a sudden journey with her mother to Riga. This is where Marga grew up and where she married Juris. But the more Sofia learns about her mothers, the less clear it becomes who she herself is.
Hans Steinbichler's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Hannelore Elsner (Marga Baumanis)'s journey. But now she reveals fear, wounds and a deep longing for her long-deceased husband Juris.
How Does Hannelore Elsner (Marga Baumanis)'s Story End?
- Hannelore Elsner: Hannelore Elsner's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Juliane Köhler (Sofia Schleier): Juliane Köhler's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Karoline Herfurth (Young Marga Baumanis): Karoline Herfurth's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Promising the Moon Mean?
The ending of Promising the Moon brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Hannelore Elsner's story may not satisfy all audiences.
Promising the Moon Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Promising the Moon Based on a True Story?
No, Promising the Moon is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Hans Steinbichler and starring Hannelore Elsner may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Promising the Moon?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Where to Watch Promising the Moon Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoPromising the Moon Parents Guide & Age Rating
2011 AdvisoryWondering about Promising the Moon age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Promising the Moon (2011) is 99 minutes (1h 39m). Directed by Hans Steinbichler, the film runs for 99 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.6/10, and global performance metrics, Promising the Moon is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2011 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Promising the Moon worth watching?
Promising the Moon is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Promising the Moon parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Promising the Moon identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Promising the Moon (2011)?
The runtime of Promising the Moon (2011) is 99 minutes (approximately 1h 39m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

