Manja, a 17-year-old German-Russian girl, lives with her family in a high-rise housing estate on the outskirts of town. One day, in the forest, she meets Louk, a rebellious young woman of the same age who rebels against social conventions. This chance encounter marks the beginning of an intense first love between the two girls. While Manja falls in love with Louk's impetuous nature, she also discovers the vulnerability behind Louk's façade. Together, they embark on a journey of growing up that confronts them with questions of freedom, devotion and letting go.

The film LUFT (English title: AIR) by Anatol Schuster is a poetic coming-of-age drama that captures the intricacies of first love. Schuster, who also co-wrote the screenplay, stages the story in atmospheric images that reflect the lightness and depth of youthful feelings. The leading actresses Paula Hüttisch (Manja) and Lara Feith (Louk) embody their roles with impressive authenticity, giving the film a special intensity.

LUFT was awarded the Filmkunstpreis at the Festival of German Films in Ludwigshafen. Anatol Schuster also received a special mention as a promising director at the Tel Aviv International LGBT Film Festival.