When we think of home, we often recall images of familiar landscapes, childhood memories, or a sense of security. But what does home truly mean today? This very question is explored in the "Heimat Trilogy" — a series of three short films initiated by the Swiss production company Orisono. The films "Pünt," "Maiensäss," and "Paxmal" take us on a narrative journey through different facets of Swiss life, without resorting to clichés. Instead, they present down-to-earth stories that are close to real life, yet leave room for dreams.
The trilogy's first installment is "Pünt." The film, set in Central Switzerland, tells the story of a young man torn between tradition and modern life choices. "Pünt"—a Swiss German term for a small, often secluded place—symbolically represents the deep roots many of us recognize. The protagonist must decide: will he remain in his familiar surroundings or dare take the leap into the unknown? The film captures this inner conflict without judgment, showing that home is not just a place but also a choice.
In the second part, “Maiensäss,” the perspective shifts to the alpine world. A Maiensäss is a traditional way station on the path to the high alpine pasture, a place of rest and transition. The film uses this imagery to tell the story of a farmer caught between preserving old values and the demands of modern agriculture. It explores respect for nature, the legacy of ancestors, and the question of how we can preserve our roots in a changing world. “Maiensäss” is not a nostalgic fairy tale, but an honest story about work, responsibility, and the love for one's land.
The trilogy concludes with "Paxmal", arguably its most poetic part. Here, two gay friends embark on a fantastic train journey through Eastern Switzerland. Their destination: Paxmal, a little-known peace monument near Walenstadt, erected in the early 20th century by merchant Karl Bickel. The film blends real locations with an almost dreamlike atmosphere, portraying home as a space we create for ourselves—regardless of origin or lifestyle. "Paxmal" is an homage to Switzerland's diversity and to the idea that home can be wherever we feel free to be ourselves.
What these three films have in common is that they do not offer simple answers. Instead, they invite us to reflect: What constitutes home for us? Is it the place where we grew up? The people who accompany us? Or perhaps the feeling of arriving somewhere – be it in nature, in a community, or within ourselves? The "Homeland Trilogy" shows that homeland is not a static concept, but something that is constantly redefined.
The films were created under the direction of Timothy Ross and Alexander Stratigenas of Orisono, a production company from Lucerne that consciously tells regional stories with its work, without losing sight of the bigger picture. The trilogy is available on PlaySuisse and has already caused a stir at festivals and among critics – not least because it manages to tell universal themes in a very Swiss, very authentic way.
Perhaps true home is found precisely in this diversity – in the stories we share, and in the paths we walk together.
For all those interested in film, culture, and the question of "where do we come from" and "where are we going," the "Heimat Trilogy" is a must-see. It reminds us that home is not something we simply possess, but something we continually rediscover – in small places like "Pünt," at alpine stops like "Maiensäss," or in unexpected locations like "Paxmal."
Curious to discover these special stories for yourself? You won't have to search long: All three parts of the "Heimat" trilogy – «Pünt», «Maiensäss», and «Paxmal» – are available for free on the streaming platform PlaySuisse. The SRG SSR platform offers a wide selection of Swiss film and series productions, with no subscription required. Perfect for a cozy movie night where you'll not only be entertained but also learn a lot about the diverse facets of our homeland. Simply open PlaySuisse, search for the «Heimat-Trilogie», and start watching.