Munich Film Festival - Munich Film Festival launched
With the DDR comedy "Two for One," the Film Festival Munich was opened on a Saturday evening. Before the opening film, however, there were serious tones: "Films capture the diversity of the world," said Festival Director Christoph Göner. The festival wanted to set a sign for this diversity, for freedom and democracy - and against racist, antisemitic, right-wing tendencies.
Bavaria's Media Minister Florian Herrmann (CSU) also set a "strong signal for a liberal, open society," saying the festival would spread "courage and confidence and a clear commitment to democracy and freedom."
Looking at the EM-Eightfinals running in parallel with the opening gala, he added jokingly: "Germany against Denmark - the loser gets Sylt." The North Sea island, not far from the German-Danish border, had recently made headlines because young people there shouted right-wing slogans in a Nobel Club.
The festival shows around 150 films from 53 countries until July 7. Traditionally, many German productions are also part of the program. The program is ambitious and spans a range from children's films to comedies and dramas to historical and political topics.
The awards will be presented at the end. Prizes will be given to newcomers as well as established filmmakers, actresses and actors. Highlights include the honors for actresses Jessica Lange and Kate Winslet, who receive the undotered CineMerit Award from the festival.
Lange was among the numerous prominent guests present at the opening gala on Saturday evening. Among the other guests were the director of the opening film, Natja Brunckhorst, film producer Oliver Berben, actress Julia Koschitz, comedian Olli Dietrich, director Baran bo Odar, and Culture Minister Claudia Roth (Greens).
Film Festival Munich
- The opening movie at the Film Festival Munich, a celebration of democracy and diversity, was the DDR comedy "Two for One".
- Bavaria's Media Minister Florian Herrmann, representing the CSU, emphasized the festival's commitment to a liberal, open society.
- During his speech, Herrmann joked about the Euro Cup Eightfinals, suggesting that the losing team would visit the right-wing-affected island of Sylt.
- The festival showcases approximately 150 movies from 53 countries, including a significant number of German productions.
- The Munich Film Festival program is extensive, featuring children's films, comedies, dramas, historical and political topics, and more.
- Notable personalities, such as Jessica Lange and Kate Winslet, will receive the undotted CineMerit Award, highlighting the festival's recognition of newcomers and established filmmakers.
- Comedian Olli Dietrich was also among the prominent guests attending the opening gala in Munich, contributing to the festive atmosphere of the comedic event.
