Das Kanu des Manitu

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Das Kanu des Manitu is a 2025 German Western parody directed by Michael “Bully” Herbig. It is the sequel to Der Schuh des Manitu (2001) and continues the spoof tradition of Bullyparade, drawing on Karl May’s Winnetou stories. The film stars Herbig, Christian Tramitz, Rick Kavanian, Sky du Mont and adds Jasmin Schwiers, Jessica Schwarz and Friedrich Mücke.

Plot in simple terms
Abahachi and his blood brother Ranger are arrested after being mistaken for train robbers. A seven‑member gang led by a mysterious boss plans to steal the legendary Manitu’s Canoe, which is said to grant eternal life if you cross a lake with it. To get the canoe, the gang needs an Apache, so they intend to execute Abahachi and use him as part of their plan. Dimitri, Abahachi’s friend who runs a Greek restaurant with a new partner named Mary, rushes to help, and Mary travels with him. It turns out Mary is Ranger’s daughter.

The group heads to a cave where Abahachi, Ranger, Mary and Dimitri must pass a series of tests to prove they are true Apaches. Along the way, Sheriff Kane pursues them. In the cave, the friends face danger and the plan to obtain the canoe unfolds. The film reveals twists about Abahachi’s origins and the bond between the characters deepens. The villains reach the cave, a chase ensues, and the canoe is eventually taken to the lake.

In the end, Abahachi is accepted by the Apaches, Dimitri and Mary marry, and Winnetouch—Abahachi’s flamboyant twin brother—has a role in tipping the balance. A post‑credit scene shows Santa Maria surviving thanks to a parachute. The story blends comedy with action as the friends try to outwit their enemies and protect the canoe.

Production and release
Filming took 44 days from 26 August to 2 November 2024 in Munich, Almería, Valencia and Santa Fe, New Mexico. The cave set was built in Bavaria Filmstadt using extensive polystyrene work. The film, produced by herbX film and Constantin Film, had an estimated budget of €13–18 million. It runs 88 minutes and is in German. Das Kanu des Manitu premiered on 12 August 2025 in Munich and opened in German cinemas on 14 August 2025, including an IMAX release. It earned about 6 million admissions in Germany, making it the year’s most successful German film. The production also featured the late voice of narrator Friedrich Schoenfelder, recreated for the film with AI technology and the permission of his widow. Other topics such as feminism and ableism are addressed in the humor and story.