His own identity, while strong, was overshadowed by the group identity. Wegner is admired by students but is an unconventional teacher. In the very beginning of the movie he is wearing a Ramones shirt and is given unappreciative looks by the faculty, but is greeted by all students. He clearly has a strong identity, and does not seem to be conforming to any teacher stereotypes. Rainer enjoys who he is, and his life, at the very beginning of the movie. Once the Wave is created, he is then not old liked by his students but valued as well. They stand when speaking to him, have respect and even protect him (Tim as bodyguard). This makes him feel special, he was always admired but now hes being respected by them, they care for him, and follow what
