Berlin was the stage for a dazzling celebration of cinematic excellence as the 75th German Film Awards took place on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Theater am Potsdamer Platz. The event, which has been honoring the best in German cinema since 1951, saw a remarkable lineup of films and talents vying for the prestigious Lola trophies.
Among the standout winners of the evening was the thriller "September 5," directed by Tim Fehlbaum, which took home the coveted Golden Lola for Best Feature Film. This gripping narrative, centered on the tragic Munich Olympic attack of 1972, showcased not only a powerful story but also exceptional filmmaking. Fehlbaum's direction earned him the award for Best Director, highlighting his skill in bringing this intense historical drama to life.
But the accolades didn’t stop there. "September 5" swept the awards with an impressive total of eight wins, including Best Screenplay for Moritz Binder and Tim Fehlbaum, Best Editing for Hansjörg Weißbrich, and Best Cinematography for Markus Förderer. The film's technical achievements were celebrated across various categories, including Best Sound Design and Best Production Design, further solidifying its dominance at the gala.
In a night filled with triumphs, Dorthe Draker was honored with the Honorary Award for her lifelong contribution to the film industry, a recognition that speaks volumes about her impact and dedication to cinema.
Liv Lisa Fries also shone brightly, winning the award for Best Actress for her moving performance in "In Liebe, eure Hilde." Meanwhile, Misagh Zare took home the Lola for Best Actor for his role in "Die Saat des heiligen Feigenbaums," showcasing the depth of talent present at this year’s awards.
As for the Best Supporting Actress, that honor went to Leonie Benesch for her role in "September 5," while Godehard Giese claimed the Best Supporting Actor award for his work in "Sad Jokes." Both performances were pivotal in enriching their respective films, adding layers of emotion and depth to the narratives.
In terms of box office success, "Die Schule der magischen Tiere 3" was acknowledged as the film with the most visitors of the year, a testament to its popularity among audiences and families alike. The film industry continues to evolve, and the recognition of such films underscores the diverse tastes of German viewers.
Additionally, Doris Metz and Birgit Schulz celebrated their victory in the Best Documentary category with their film "Petra Kelly - Act Now!" This documentary sheds light on the life and legacy of Petra Kelly, a prominent figure in the German Green Party, and highlights the importance of activism and environmentalism in contemporary society.
Other notable nominations and awards included recognition for visual effects, costume design, and film music, with Dascha Dauenhauer winning for Best Film Music for "Islands," and Julian R. Wagner and Melanie Raab receiving accolades for Best Production Design for "September 5." The range of categories and winners reflects the vibrant and multifaceted nature of the German film industry.
The evening was not only a celebration of the winners but also a reminder of the rich history and future potential of German cinema. Each award presented tells a story of creativity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in filmmaking.
As the event concluded, the attendees left with a sense of pride and anticipation for the future of German film. The 75th German Film Awards were a resounding success, showcasing the incredible talent and storytelling that continues to emerge from Germany's film scene.
