Roche's 'Wetlands' in Locarno

The Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, running this year through August 17, is an important platform for independent films. The open-air showings on Locarno's central square are particularly popular, attracting some 8,000 people. Twenty feature and documentary films are competing for the Golden Leopard this year. Germany's contribution is "Wetlands," based on the novel by Charlotte Roche.

Born in England, Charlotte Roche has lived in Germany for many years. In 2008, her novel "Wetlands" was at the top of the bestseller list for months, selling over 2.5 million copies. Previously, she'd had some success as a singer, actress and TV presenter.

After the book's massive success, it was only a matter of time until "Wetlands" was turned into a movie. For director David Wnendt, it's a huge accomplishment to be invited to take part in the competition at the renowned Locarno festival. Lead actress Carla Juri of Switzerland received the European Shooting Star Award at this year's Berlin International Film Festival.

In the book, Roche dealt bluntly with topics like sexuality and hygiene, which caused a stir among readers and in the media. Some even demanded the book be banned, but the hype had a direct impact on sales. A similar phenomenon could happen with the film, which remains true to the novel and does not omit explicit scenes.

Director David Wnendt has created a technically strong work featuring an actress that leaves an impression. Other well-known actors like Axel Milberg and Edgar Selge make appearances. In the end, the viewers will have to decide for themselves what they think about the explicit approach.

The stories Charlotte Roche tells in her books - as drastic as they may seem - have a serious background. She once said that 70 percent of it is autobiographical. In her second book, "Wrecked," she revisited similar topics. The sequel is currently being filmed by director Sönke Wortmann.

With her approach, Roche seems to be in touch with the times. Many young readers today don't stick to books written for youth, but choose material from the adult sections, like books by Roche, Renate Reichstein, chairwoman of Germany's Consortium for Youth Publishers (AVJ), said recently. The film "Wetlands" is also expected to draw a young crowd.

We'll know on August 17, when the festival comes to an end, just how much the Locarno jury liked Wnendt's interpretation of "Wetlands." For the director, just being a part of the prestigious festival is a big deal. The film opens in German cinemas on August 22.