This year, we want to reflect on the art of becoming human (Novalis). What does it mean to be human in today’s world? In a world shaped by different cultures, new and old conflicts and the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence, the question is becoming increasingly urgent: What defines us as humans? Is mankind inherently […]

We are very happy to have won the Barbara Carl Foundation based in Lörrach as a partner of FILM WITHOUT BORDERS! The Barbara Carl Foundation stands for humanitarian values, for trust, solidarity and offers assistance to people who need our help. The non-profit organization FILM WITHOUT BORDERS can only realize an international film festival and […]

In the wake of current political developments, nature conservation and environmental protection are increasingly falling out of focus. However, two films impressively demonstrated the importance of commitment to an intact environment: ALL THAT BREATHES, presented in cooperation with the Heinz Sielmann Foundation, and PETRA KELLY – ACT NOW. The Oscar-nominated first film addressed the ecological […]

The protagonists Mostafa, Mojtaba, Mohebi and Alireza from Afghanistan and Iran were present at the pre-cinema premiere of the documentary “Denkste Puppe”. They traveled to the event especially for the screening and were able to engage in an intensive exchange with the audience during the subsequent film discussion. Outside the barn, the conversation continued with […]

As part of the youth work, several workshops were successfully implemented again this year: The youth jury decided on the school cinema program, which attracted around 400 pupils to the festival. In addition, a film project (“Children’s Parliament”) and a CV project with refugees were realized. A film workshop with young filmmakers from crisis areas […]

An emotional highlight of the festival was the visit of Margot Friedländer, who was welcomed to the festival as this year’s guest of honor. Ms. Friedländer has close ties to Bad Saarow, as she often spent her summer holidays there as a young girl. With her appeal for humanity and tolerance, she addressed the moved […]

On Saturday evening, Ronald Zehrfeld and Peter Kurth put on an unforgettable performance of the summer comedy ZWEI ZU EINS (directed by Natja Brunckhorst). The barn was packed and the atmosphere was exuberant. Ronald Zehrfeld, also patron of the festival, and his fellow actor Peter Kurth presented the subtle comedy in which three friends try […]

A special highlight of the festival was the appearance of renowned journalist, poet and women’s rights activist Asieh Amini. Amini, one of the leading voices in the fight for women’s rights in Iran, touched the audience with impressive insights into the current situation in the country and the situation of women. With powerful words, she […]

The first day of the festival ended with a memorable evening! In a brilliant welcoming speech, the Franco-German publicist, talk show host, lawyer and philosopher Prof. Dr. Dr. Michel Friedman appealed to the principle of human rights “EVERYONE is someone” (after George Tabori) and called on us to stop waiting and get involved NOW for […]

Readings, concerts and lectures 2024 In addition to the film program, there will also be special events this year: Film journalist and radioeins presenter Knut Elstermann will read from his books ‘Im Gespräch mit – Knut Elstermann befragt ostdeutsche Stars’ and ‘Kohlhaase’ (Thu, Sept. 12, 6 p.m.). Actor and Neil Young fan Ludwig Blochberger presents […]