The documentary offers a unique perspective by capturing the experiences of ordinary citizens in Rostock during the late 1980s. It highlights the community's relationship with their work and surroundings, providing insight into life under the German Democratic Republic (GDR). The film also reflects on the challenges faced by the filmmakers, such as encountering shops that were unexpectedly well-stocked during filming. To present an authentic portrayal, the crew would sometimes delay shooting to allow shelves to return to their typical state.

Upon its release, East German audiences responded enthusiastically to the film. However, GDR authorities cancelled some screenings at the last minute. Decades later, filmmaker Ellin Hare revisited Rostock to reconnect with key figures from the original documentary. This return journey culminated in the 2016 film From Us to Me, which explores the transformations following the collapse of the GDR and the subsequent unification of East and West Germany.