Screening at the Eibenhof Culture Barn, hosted by Andrea Thilo

Speakers: Dr. Manja Schüle, Minister for Science, Research and Culture of the State of Brandenburg, Frank Steffen, District Administrator of the Oder-Spree District

Following the screenings of the film 22 BAHNEN, there will be a post-film discussion with actress Laura Tonke.

Pre-show film

Festival Preview BUZZING BEES

In a creative workshop, the preschoolers from the Groß Schauen daycare center immersed themselves in the lives of bees – with a visit to the beekeeper, a magic disk, stop-motion animation, shadow play, their own drawings, natural materials, and discussions. This resulted in the magical short film *Summing Pictures* (Germany 2025, 9‘45‘), which shows the social life of bees from the children’s perspective and their joy in moving images. The film by Anna Faroqhi & Haim Peretz was created as part of the youth work of FILM OHNE GRENZEN.

Main feature:

22 Lanes

At the edge of the pool, every day begins the same for Tilda: 22 laps, precise, controlled, reliable. It is the only place where she can let go. Because only in the water does she find the order that she so often lacks outside of it.

22 Laps tells the story of a young woman who carries responsibility even though she herself can barely find any stability. Between her studies, a supermarket job, and caring for her little sister, Tilda tries to tame the chaos in her family. Her mother is addicted to alcohol, her father has disappeared, and everyday life is exhausting.

When the chance for a PhD in Berlin arises, a fresh start seems within reach. At the same time, Viktor appears in her life—mysterious, attentive, and an anchor of memory to her deceased friend.

Director Mia Maariel Meyer tells the calm and empathetic story of a young woman who is at a crucial point in her life. Through poetic imagery and poignant dialogue, the film portrays the burden of family responsibility, pain, intimacy, and the courage to put oneself first.

The lead actress Laura Tonke will be present at the film festival!

©Joachim Gern