Tomorrow I leave (2024) by Maria Lisa Pichler, Lukas Schöffel

Description: “Tomorrow I Leave” (original title “Mâine Mă Duc”) is a tender and insightful 2024 documentary film co-directed by Maria Lisa Pichler and Lukas Schöffel. It offers an intimate portrait of Maria, a Romanian 24-hour caregiver, as she navigates the profound emotional and physical toll of commuting over a thousand kilometers every four weeks to care for elderly individuals in Austria, while her own family in Romania faces similar challenges in her absence. The film beautifully captures the hopes, sacrifices, and unbreakable bonds that define a life perpetually torn between two worlds, illuminating a crucial aspect of contemporary European society.

“Tomorrow I Leave” delves deep into the often-unseen realities of migrant care work in Europe. At its heart is Maria, a resilient Romanian woman in her early 40s, whose life is defined by cyclical departures and bittersweet returns. The documentary meticulously follows her demanding routine: leaving her aging parents, husband Daniel, and two sons in their Romanian village every four weeks to embark on a long journey to Austria, where she provides 24-hour care for an elderly person.

The film is a compassionate and empathetic exploration of the human cost of this migration for work. It doesn’t just show Maria’s physical journey but also her emotional one, highlighting the constant balancing act between economic necessity and familial connection. While Maria cares for others, her own parents are left to manage, and her husband Daniel, who himself has experience with long-term work abroad, now takes on the primary role at home. The film also touches upon the aspirations of their sons, who dream of a different future, perhaps one free from the perpetual goodbyes.

Through intimate observational footage and quiet moments of reflection, Pichler and Schöffel craft a narrative that resonates far beyond Maria’s individual story. It becomes a broader commentary on social mobility, the complexities of cross-border labor, and the enduring strength of family bonds in a Europe marked by economic disparities and the globalized care industry.

The film opens by introducing Maria in her Romanian village, providing glimpses into her home life with her husband, Daniel, and their two sons. Every four weeks, Maria prepares for a journey of over a thousand kilometers to Austria, where she works as a 24-hour caregiver for an elderly person. The documentary follows her on these long commutes, capturing the emotional weight of leaving her family behind.

In Austria, the film portrays Maria’s dedication to her caregiving duties, showing the demanding nature of her work and the close, yet professional, relationships she forms with her clients. Simultaneously, it provides glimpses back to her family in Romania, revealing how they cope with her absence. Her aging parents manage on their own, while her husband, Daniel, takes charge of the household, drawing on his own past experiences of working abroad.

The narrative explores the cyclical nature of Maria’s life – the difficult farewells, the intense periods of work, the joyous but fleeting returns home, and the inevitable preparations for the next departure. Maria expresses her long-term dream of earning enough money to open a small bed and breakfast in Romania, hoping to finally quit traveling and be permanently with her family. The film also touches upon the aspirations of her sons, who envision a future different from their parents’ migratory work. The documentary concludes with Maria once again preparing to leave, encapsulating the ongoing dilemma of her existence, a life constantly in motion between sacrifice and the hope for a complete family life.

Maria Lisa Pichler and Lukas Schöffel’s directorial vision for “Tomorrow I Leave” is rooted in empathetic objectivity and intimate observation. Their aim was to create a sensitive and authentic portrait of individuals caught in the complex web of economic migration, specifically within the care sector. They sought to highlight the human element behind the statistics of cross-border labor, focusing on the emotional sacrifices made by both those who leave and those who remain.

The directors intended to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by caregivers like Maria, emphasizing the personal dilemmas of balancing economic necessity with the fundamental human need for family connection. They deliberately chose a documentary format to allow the reality of Maria’s life, her resilience, and her family’s experiences to speak for themselves, without imposing heavy-handed judgments or political statements. Their vision was to create a film that would be a poignant reflection on home, longing, absence, and the enduring strength of human spirit amidst a “torn Europe.”

• Migration and Mobility: The film directly addresses the realities of labor migration within Europe, particularly the movement of caregivers from Eastern to Western European countries. It explores the physical and emotional journeys involved in seeking economic opportunities abroad, and how these movements reshape lives and families.

• Family Bonds and Sacrifice: At its core, the documentary is a testament to the strength of family. It portrays Maria’s deep love and commitment to her family as the primary motivation for her demanding work, highlighting the profound sacrifices she makes (time away from her children, caring for others while her own parents age) for their well-being and future.

• The Care Economy and Exploitation: The film implicitly sheds light on the globalized care industry, where individuals from less affluent countries often fill crucial gaps in the social care systems of wealthier nations. It hints at the systemic issues and the personal strains inherent in this dynamic, though it maintains a focus on Maria’s personal experience.

• Home, Belonging, and Absence: Maria’s life is a constant negotiation between two homes – her family in Romania and her temporary life in Austria. The film explores the meaning of “home” when one is perpetually on the move, and the pervasive sense of absence experienced by both those who leave and those who are left behind.

• Hopes and Dreams for a Better Future: Despite the hardships, Maria and her family hold onto dreams of a more stable and comfortable future. The film touches upon the aspirations for social mobility and the yearning for a life where economic necessity no longer dictates the constant separation of loved ones.

• Empathetic and Intimate Portrayal: The film’s success lies in its deeply empathetic and respectful approach to Maria’s story. The directors establish a level of trust that allows for intimate access to her life and emotions, making her experiences relatable and profoundly human.

• Timely and Relevant Subject Matter: The theme of migrant care work is highly relevant in contemporary Europe, touching upon crucial social, economic, and humanitarian issues. The film sheds light on an often-invisible segment of the workforce, making it a significant contribution to public discourse.

• Strong Observational Documentary Style: Pichler and Schöffel employ a patient, observational documentary style that allows the narrative to unfold naturally. This minimalist approach enhances the authenticity and emotional impact, enabling viewers to draw their own conclusions about the complex issues presented.

• Focus on Personal Narrative within a Broader Context: By centering the film on Maria’s personal story, the directors make the broad and abstract issues of migration and labor tangible and emotionally resonant. Maria’s individual experience serves as a powerful microcosm for wider societal trends.

• Festival Recognition and Critical Acclaim: The film’s selection and positive reception at various international film festivals (like Diagonale, Ethnocineca, Duisburger Filmwoche) validate its artistic merit and thematic importance, helping it gain visibility and critical endorsement.

“Tomorrow I Leave” has been an official selection at several prestigious film festivals, including:

• Diagonale ’24 (Festival of Austrian Film in Graz, Austria)

• Ethnocineca (International Documentary Film Festival in Vienna, Austria)

• European Film Festival 2024 (București, Romania)

• Duisburger Filmwoche 2024 (Germany)

• Cahul – Moldox Festival

It is also a contender for the Franz Grabner Award for Best Cinema Documentary in 2025, signaling its critical acclaim and strong standing within the documentary filmmaking community.

“Tomorrow I Leave” is an Austrian-Romanian co-production, with Maria Lisa Pichler and Lukas Schöffel serving as both directors and producers. The film’s budget is estimated around €80,000, which is characteristic of independent documentary filmmaking. The production involved extensive fieldwork and an intimate engagement with Maria and her family over time to capture the nuanced realities of their lives. Maria Lisa Pichler also handled the editing and original sound, contributing significantly to the film’s authentic and immersive feel, while Lukas Schöffel served as the cinematographer, capturing the journey and the family’s life with a sensitive lens.

• Production Companies: Lukas Schöffel und Maria Lisa Pichler (Independent production)

• Countries of Production: Austria, Romania

• Distribution Companies:

• Release Date on Streaming: The film is available on Prime Video in some regions, though availability might vary by location and subscription. Specific global streaming release dates are often staggered for independent documentaries.

• Theatrical Release:

  • Austria: March 28, 2024, as part of its festival circuit and limited theatrical run.

  • Other European Countries: Screened at various film festivals in Romania, Germany, and Moldova throughout 2024. Further theatrical releases depend on distribution deals in individual countries.

• For a Deeply Human Story: It offers a raw, unfiltered look into the life of a dedicated caregiver, making her personal sacrifices and emotional dilemmas incredibly relatable and universal.

• For Insight into a Crucial Social Issue: The film sheds light on the often-overlooked lives of migrant caregivers, providing vital context and empathy for the challenges they face, and highlights their indispensable role in an aging Europe.

• For Fans of Authentic Documentary Filmmaking: If you appreciate documentaries that prioritize observation, intimacy, and a nuanced portrayal of reality over sensationalism, “Tomorrow I Leave” is a masterclass in empathetic storytelling.

• To Spark Thoughtful Discussion: Its themes of migration, family, economic necessity, and the meaning of home are highly relevant and provide rich material for discussion on contemporary societal issues.

• For Its Artistic Sensitivity: The film’s direction, cinematography, and editing are handled with great care and sensitivity, creating a beautiful and emotionally resonant viewing experience despite the challenging subject matter.

• To Understand the Cost of Care: Gain a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices made by individuals who underpin the care systems in many Western European countries, challenging preconceived notions about migrant workers.

• To Witness Unwavering Resilience: Maria’s strength, dedication, and enduring hope in the face of constant separation are truly inspiring, offering a powerful testament to the human spirit.

• To Connect with Global Realities: Experience a story that, while specific to Maria, reflects a global phenomenon of individuals navigating borders and economic disparities for the sake of their families, fostering a broader sense of connection and empathy.

• To Experience a Critically Acclaimed Documentary: As an official selection at multiple prestigious film festivals, “Tomorrow I Leave” has been recognized for its quality, relevance, and powerful storytelling.

• For a Quiet, Meditative Reflection: The film’s pacing allows for introspection, inviting viewers to reflect on their own values, family bonds, and the meaning of home and belonging in a complex world.

• Intimate Social Realism Documentary: “Tomorrow I Leave” aligns with a trend of documentaries that prioritize intimate, observational storytelling to explore pressing social issues through the lens of personal experience. These films often feature minimalist production, focus on everyday realities, and aim to foster empathy and understanding rather than offering prescriptive solutions (e.g., Honeyland, Collective, For Sama). They bring unseen worlds and marginalized voices to the forefront with authenticity.

• The European Care Crisis and Labor Migration: The film directly addresses the significant social trend of an aging population in many Western European countries, leading to a high demand for care workers. This demand is increasingly met by migrant laborers from Eastern Europe and other regions, creating a complex dynamic of economic dependence, social integration challenges, and personal sacrifices. The film highlights the human aspect of this large-scale migration trend within the European Union.

“Tomorrow I Leave” is an essential and deeply moving documentary that offers a vital perspective on the human impact of globalized labor and the profound sacrifices made in the name of family. Maria Lisa Pichler and Lukas Schöffel have created a sensitive, authentic, and compelling portrait of a woman’s resilience and the enduring power of love across borders. It is a quiet yet powerful film that resonates long after viewing, fostering empathy and critical reflection on the often-invisible threads that connect us in a complex Europe.

• Focus on Character-Driven Narratives for Social Impact: The film demonstrates how a deeply personal story can effectively illuminate broader social issues. Filmmakers should prioritize developing strong, relatable characters whose individual struggles mirror systemic problems, making the abstract tangible for audiences.

• Cultivate Trust and Intimacy with Subjects: The authenticity of “Tomorrow I Leave” stems from the evident trust between the directors and Maria. Filmmakers should invest time in building genuine relationships with their subjects, ensuring ethical representation and allowing for truly intimate access to their lives.

• Embrace Observational Filmmaking for Authenticity: The documentary’s power lies in its patient, non-interventional approach. Filmmakers can learn to let the story unfold naturally through keen observation, allowing reality to dictate the narrative without imposing artificial structures or explicit commentary.

• Explore Unsung Heroes and Unseen Realities: The film sheds light on the vital yet often-overlooked work of caregivers. Filmmakers should seek out stories from marginalized communities or professions that are essential to society but remain largely invisible, giving voice to the unsung.

• Consider the Long-Term Impact of Themes: “Tomorrow I Leave” addresses issues (migration, care work, family) that have enduring relevance. Filmmakers should choose themes with lasting significance, ensuring their work remains impactful beyond immediate headlines.

• Support Independent Documentary Filmmaking: The industry should continue to provide funding, distribution, and exhibition opportunities for independent documentaries like “Tomorrow I Leave,” which often tackle crucial social issues with artistic integrity but without mainstream budgets.

• Promote Films Addressing Social and Humanitarian Issues: Recognize the value of films that contribute to public discourse and foster empathy for diverse communities. The industry should actively seek out and promote narratives that shed light on pressing social and humanitarian concerns, providing platforms for underrepresented voices.

• Facilitate International Collaborations: “Tomorrow I Leave” is an Austrian-Romanian co-production, reflecting the transnational nature of its subject matter. The industry should encourage and support international collaborations that can provide richer, more nuanced perspectives on global issues.

• Expand Distribution Channels for Niche Content: For documentaries focusing on specific social themes, traditional theatrical releases may be limited. The industry should explore diverse distribution models, including partnerships with educational institutions, NGOs, and specialized streaming platforms, to reach relevant audiences.

• Acknowledge the Importance of Festival Success: For many independent documentaries, festival recognition is vital for visibility and critical validation. The industry should leverage this success in marketing and acquisition strategies, understanding its crucial role in building momentum for these films.

“Tomorrow I Leave” is a testament to the power of documentary cinema to illuminate complex realities and foster profound empathy. Maria Lisa Pichler and Lukas Schöffel have crafted a deeply human and socially relevant film that highlights the often-unseen sacrifices of migrant caregivers in Europe. It’s a poignant and necessary watch for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of contemporary global migration patterns, the enduring strength of family bonds, and the personal cost of securing a better life. The film stands as a significant contribution to social realist documentary, reminding us of the vital human stories embedded within broader economic and social trends.