The focus of this film is Martin, a young boy who has come to be neglected by his classmates. The ridicule he faces has forced him into solitude, as he can always be found in his little fort. It's not that he is anti-social, he wants nothing more than to play with the other children. But they are having none of it. His numerous attempts at finding a playmate go unheeded. The other children tell him to go back to his pigsty, and whisper rumours about him regarding why no one should play with him. Success! While waiting to be picked up.. Martin makes a friend, a young girl, Nicole, who he has convinced to play with him , as she wants to see his pet crow, Max. The poor boy seems also to be neglected at home. As his mother is ill, he must rely on popcorn for nourishment- breakfast lunch and dinner. On top of this his father beats him. The two children become best friends and Nicole's mother starts to take care of the young boy. Ecstatic hes found a new friend, Martin gives Nicole his only worldly possession, his pet Crow. To return the favour, she organizes the children in the class to collect money to buy two guinea pigs for Martin, which are named "Laurel" and "Hardy". This humble and innocent act overcomes the other children's preconceptions and allows them to accept Martin as an integrated member of the class.
While shot like a documentary, it is actually a scripted short film that seems to be sending the message, "Be nice to the poor kid, cause he's probably getting beat by his dad". Feels like an anti-bullying film that was made for elementary school children to watch. Very mediocre, but it's watchable, nicely shot, and hey, it's Herzog...so you've got to see it!!! 5 out of 10.