Berlin hosted a poignant night at the 75th German Film Prize ceremony on May 9, 2025, where the film "September 5" emerged as the standout winner, taking home nine prestigious Lolas, including the coveted Golden Lola for Best Feature Film. This year's ceremony was marked not only by triumphs but also by a significant moment of sorrow, as it coincided with the passing of Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, who died at the age of 103.
"September 5," directed by Tim Fehlbaum, recounts the harrowing events of the 1972 Munich Olympics attack from the perspective of a U.S. television crew. Initially there to cover the Olympic games, the journalists found themselves thrust into the role of live reporters during a hostage crisis involving Israeli athletes. This gripping narrative led to the film winning accolades for Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Editing, among others.
Fehlbaum expressed the film's intention to critically examine the role of media in crises, stating, "It was important for us to question the role of the media critically. But especially in times of 'fake news' and 'lying press,' independent media is a cornerstone of democracy. With all the criticism, it is important to support media. We have seen what happens when they can no longer report independently." His vision resonated with the audience, reflecting a broader concern about the state of journalism today.
Alongside "September 5," the Lola in Silver was awarded to the political thriller "Die Saat des heiligen Feigenbaums" by Mohammad Rasoulof, which explores the protests in Iran following the death of Jina Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Misagh Zare received the award for Best Actor for his portrayal in this compelling film, which highlights the struggles against repression in his homeland.
In a touching tribute during the ceremony, renowned pianist Igor Levit honored Margot Friedländer, who had been a symbol of resilience and memory for many. Levit, visibly emotional, called for a moment of silence, saying, "She was a miracle of a person." The audience stood in reverence, with many actors visibly moved, underscoring the depth of Friedländer's impact on society.
Meanwhile, Liv Lisa Fries won the Lola for Best Actress for her role in the drama "In Liebe, Eure Hilde," where she portrayed Hilde Coppi, a member of the Nazi resistance known as the Red Orchestra. The film was also recognized with a bronze Lola, highlighting its significant narrative and historical context. Fries, reflecting on her experience, noted, "I learned precision from Andreas Dresen. Winning is not important, but it is still nice."
The ceremony saw around 1,700 guests in attendance, including the new Minister of Culture, Wolfram Weimer, who celebrated the achievements of the film industry. The event was not only a celebration of artistic excellence but also a reflection of the ongoing challenges and changes in the film funding landscape in Germany.
For the first time in its history, the German Film Prize was awarded without direct monetary prizes. Instead, the funds, amounting to around three million euros, will now be directed towards cultural film funding. This shift aims to enhance the support available for future projects, ensuring that filmmakers can continue to produce impactful and diverse content.
This year’s awards also recognized Dascha Dauenhauer for Best Film Music for her work in Jan-Ole Gerster's psychological thriller "Islands," while Godehard Giese won the award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in "Sad Jokes." Leonie Benesch was celebrated as Best Supporting Actress for her role in "September 5," further solidifying the film's dominance at the awards.
As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with both celebration and reflection. The legacy of Margot Friedländer served as a poignant reminder of the importance of storytelling, memory, and the arts in shaping society. The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting independent and critical media, echoing the sentiments of the filmmakers and attendees alike.
In the end, the German Film Prize 2025 was not just about recognizing artistic achievements; it was a moment to honor the past, reflect on the present, and inspire future generations of filmmakers and storytellers.
