The film programme ‘Future German Cinema’ explores experimental narrative forms, stylistic innovations and social relevancy in German cinema. Whether political thrillers, intimate explorations of grief or satire – the films in this programme move, challenge and push boundaries. They showcase the diversity of German cinema and invite us to celebrate its as a cinematic art form that dares to take risks.
In Prosecution and Sometimes, I Imagine Them All at a Party, questions of responsibility, violence and institutional failure collide. I Understand Your Displeasure turns its gaze towards a precarious work environment. Whilst Gropiusstadt Supernova and No Good Men tell of threatened ways of life under the pressure of external circumstances, Babystar explores the demands of self-promotion and constant exposure. At the same time, films such as Gavagai, Rose and The Blood Countess revolve around role models, performances and power dynamics – sometimes as a reflection on art and privilege, sometimes as an archaic black-and-white drama, sometimes as a delightfully over-the-top farce.
The programme also unfolds its full strength in the personal sphere: Sechswochenamt and A Fading Man explore loss, memory and the fragile shifts in familial relationships, whilst Bernd – Operation Germanenkind probes the boundaries of tolerance, inclusion and moral self-assurance. It is precisely this breadth that defines the special quality of the selection: these films are tender and relentless, funny and poignant. They do not paint a uniform picture of the future of German cinema – but rather offer many vivid and must-see perspectives.
Programme Future German Cinema
Section
Location
Country
Language
language version
TUE, 28. Apr
20:15 h
Section: Future German Cinema
Direction: Faraz Shariat
Berlinale 2026: Panorama Audience Award
HESSIAN PREMIERE
On April 28: Q&A with director Faraz Shariat, actor Chen Emilie Yan, producer Paulina Lorenz and screenwriter Claudia Schaefer
Tuesday 28 April 2026, 20:15 h, Esplanade im Festivalzentrum
WED, 29. Apr
THU, 30. Apr
20:45 h
Bernd – Operation Germanenkind
Section: Future German Cinema
Direction: Cornelius Schwalm
Lincs International Film Festival 2026: Most Challenging Film und Best Acting (Verena Unbehaun)
HESSIAN PREMIERE
In the presence of the director
Thursday 30 April 2026, 20:45 h, Elysee 2 im Festivalzentrum
FRI, 1. May
SAT, 2. May
SUN, 3. May
18:00 h
Sometimes, I Imagine Them All at a Party
Section: Future German Cinema
Direction: Daniela Magnani Hüller
Berlinale 2026: Special Mention Documentary Award
HESSIAN PREMIERE
Q&A with the director
Sunday 3 May 2026, 18:00 h, Elysee 2 im Festivalzentrum