Lawyer Becomes Vigilante Against Hate Crimes

Faraz Shariat's film 'Prosecution' offers a gripping legal thriller centered on Seyo Kim, a German-Korean lawyer dedicated to prosecuting far-right hate crimes. Despite facing institutional blockades and a high rate of dropped cases, Seyo's commitment is tested when she is targeted in a violent assault. This incident propels her into a determined, parallel investigation, blurring ethical lines as she seeks retribution.

The narrative critically examines Germany's legal system, particularly its claim of impartiality, questioning who is truly protected when institutions downplay threats. Seyo, initially meek, evolves into an antiheroine, reminiscent of Lisbeth Salander, driven by a potent mix of self-preservation and anger. Her pursuit of justice involves circumventing legal confines and confronting systemic failures.

The film's title, 'Staatsschutz,' meaning 'state protection,' underscores the central theme of institutional responsibility and the potential for systems to fail individuals. Seyo's transformation is compelling, showing a woman pushed to extremes against overwhelming odds. The movie is described as a liberal power fantasy, encouraging viewers to challenge injustice from within.