The Young Karl Marx 2018

While in his twenties, Karl Marx (August Diehl) grapples with the challenge of making a name for himself as an influential writer in the realms of politics and sociology. The narrative unfolds with a striking scene depicting impoverished individuals foraging for dead wood in a forest—a practice they have engaged in for generations. However, as the winds of regulation shift, the government declares this wood collecting illegal, asserting it now belongs to the landlords as private property. This brutal transition leads to the persecution and extrajudicial killings of the destitute by government officials. Throughout these tumultuous events, Marx becomes increasingly aware of how the bourgeoisie has effectively seized control of the state apparatus itself.

In his journey, Marx encounters Friedrich Engels (Stefan Konarske), a young man hailing from a wealthy background whose father owns factories. Witnessing firsthand the abysmal conditions and exploitation faced by workers—including children—Engels’ convictions deepen. Together, Marx and Engels join forces to develop a powerful political movement aimed at reforming the plight of the impoverished workforce.

Their collaboration culminates in a daring coup at a League of the Just meeting, leading to the establishment of the Communist League. The film reaches its climax with the publication of their seminal work, The Communist Manifesto, where Marx and Engels distill complex theories into accessible language for the masses, coinciding with the fervor of the 1848 revolutions. This powerful statement not only captures the spirit of the age but also sows the seeds for future movements seeking justice and equity for the working class.