The dog breeder Herbert (Peter Simonischek) has taken Maria (Juliane Köhler) and her son Paul (Robert Stadlober) away from the streets. In his own way, he loves and cares for Maria - just like with his beloved dogs. In return, he expects gratitude, obedience, recognition. But the stepson does not submit to him. Herbert never comes close to the relationship between mother and son. For Maria, Paul is the only person who never questions her love. When a boy of the same age is killed in a motorcycle race with Paul, Herbert finally sees his chance to get rid of Paul and have Maria's love all to himself. But then she learns who betrayed her son.... and the only and last time she confronts Herbert with the question: "Do you love me?" - By then her verdict has long since been passed. Nothing remains of the man who believed he could possess Maria's love.

Impressive psychodrama... subtly eerie, subtly ironic and striking
WESTDEUTSCHE ZEITUNG

...impressive with intelligent characters and outstanding cast
FRANKFURTER RUNDSCHAU

...outstandingly cast TV-drama...
TAGESSPIEGEL