In October 2019, the Dannenröder Forest in Hesse was occupied by climate activists to protect it from being cleared for a new highway route. They lived in treehouses built at heights of over 20 meters in treetops for a year, creating an alternative living and open space. One year later, with the beginning of the clearing season, clearing of the structures and clearing of the path for the A49 highway began. The approximately 250 squatters resisted by means of civil disobedience until, on 8 December 2020, the last tree with the last treehouse fell. The film accompanies the activists from September to December 2020, showing them how to build structures and treehouses at heights of 25 meters in the tops of the beech trees. The camera is present when they talk about their ideas for a different, less consumerist society. And, it is also there with bells on when the police tactical unit climbs into the tree houses to get the people out of the trees.
“The documentary BARRIKADE is a project very dear to my heart. The story of the occupation of the Dannenröder Forest not only has a political dimension, but also involves many ‘small’ issues that affect the way people treat each other. Nowhere else did I meet so many friendly and reflective people who treat each other with respect. And who are - justifiably - concerned about the future of this one world. Thus, the documentary should also give the viewer ideas to see things in a new and different way. Even if they do not live in treetops.”