The 28th Berlin & Beyond Film Festival, presented by the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, will run April 18-20, 2024 at the historic Roxie Theater in San Francisco's Mission District, and April 21-22, 2024 at Rialto Cinemas Elmwood in Berkeley. North America's leading festival of contemporary German cinema unveils the Official Selections of Feature Films.
Additional programming, including added films, the Shorts Program 2024, #VirtualFest, and other venues will be announced in the coming days.
~~~~~
OPENING NIGHT FILM
~~~~~
One for the Road
North American Premiere with Special Guest Markus Goller
Directed by Markus Goller
Starring Frederick Lau, Nora Tschirner, Burak Yigit, Godehard Giese
Although in self-denial about his drinking problem, Mark seems to have easily mastered life between his demanding job as a construction manager and rambunctious forays into Berlin's nightlife. A distinctively authentic story about a man facing the obstacles of addiction. (115 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
View Trailer
~~~~~
CINEMA PANORAMA
~~~~~
Girl You Know it's True
North American Premiere
Directed by Simon Verhoeven
Starring Tijan Nije, Elan Ben Ali, Matthias Schweighöfer, Bella Dayne
The highly anticipated Milli Vanilli story comes to the big screen: Dancers Pilatus and Morvan rise to fame in the late 1980's, becoming stars with No.1 hits and winning a Grammy. The duo never sang a word in their songs. As the truth surfaces, it becomes one of the biggest scandals in music history. (124 min. Germany / 2023. In English, German, and some French with English subtitles)
Ingeborg Bachmann - Journey into the Desert (Ingeborg Bachmann - Reise in die Wüste)
Centerpiece Film | California Premiere
Directed by Margarethe von Trotta
Starring Vicky Krieps, Ronald Zehrfeld, Tobias Resch
The remarkable and charismatic Ingeborg Bachmann has conquered the male dominated bastion of German-language literature with her poetry. Amidst professional and personal friction in her relationships, she travels to the desert, where she finds a way back to herself and her writing. (110 min. Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Jordan, Italy / 2023. In German with some French and Italian with English subtitles)
Sophia, Death and Me (Sophia, der Tod und ich)
San Francisco Closing Night Film | US Premiere
Directed by Charly Hübner
Starring Dimitrij Schaad, Anna Maria Mühe, Marc Hosemann, Johanna Gastdorf
Based on the bestselling novel by musician Thees Uhlmann: Reiner's doorbell rings, and standing in front is Morten de Sarg, who is actually his death. Reiner's death is interrupted when the doorbell rings. It's Reiner's ex-girlfriend Sophia, who came to fetch Reiner for their scheduled train trip to visit Reiner's mother for a birthday surprise. Running against time to the train station, they set off on a wild journey that will change all their lives. (98 min. Germany / 2023. In German with some French with English subtitles)
Sun & Concrete (Sonne und Beton)
Northern California Premiere
Directed by David Wnendt
Starring Levy Rico Arcos, Riad Chemali, Rafael Luis Klein-Heßling
Based on the bestselling autobiography by Felix Lobrecht: Four teenage friends - Lukas, Julius, Gino and Sanchez - are trying to survive everyday life in Neukölln, Berlin, between drugs, gangs, rap, violence and boredom. One day, they are forced to make a decision with serious consequences. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
The Teachers' Lounge
Special Screening
Directed by Ilker Çatak
Starring Leonie Benesch, Eva Löbau, Leo Stettnisch
2024 Academy Award Best International Feature Film nominee: When a series of thefts occur in a German middle school, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust among outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and angry students, a young teacher is caught in the middle of complex dynamics. (95 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
GOETHE FORUM
~~~~~
Hao Are You
North American Premiere | Documentary Feature Film
Directed by Dieu Hao Do
His mother blames communism, his uncle an inheritance dispute, the others fall silent. Director Dieu Hao Do explores the fragmentation of his family. The American War in Vietnam scattered them across three continents. Nearly 50 years after their escape, contact between the seven family members has all but broken down. How have traumas from persecution and violence inscribed themselves on the bodies and souls of the survivors and their children? (90 min. Germany / 2023. In German, Cantonese, and Vietnamese with English subtitles)
~~~~~
SWISS FILM & TALKS
~~~~~
Late Bloomers (Die Herbstzeitlosen)
Special Projection in 35 mm Film with Special Guest Bettina Oberli
Directed by Bettina Oberli
Starring Monica Gubser, Annemarie Düringer, Stephanie Glaser, Heidi Maria Glössner
When four older women in Emmental decide to turn the local corner shop into a chic lingerie store, the whole community is thrown into disarray. (90 min. Switzerland / 2006. In Swiss German and German with English subtitles)
Episode of The Night in Question (37 Sekunden)
To be announced: One episode of the TV series directed by Bettina Oberli will screen as part of the Swiss Film & Talks program, prior to the 35 mm projection of "Late Bloomers." (Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
YOUTH 4 GERMAN CINEMA 2024 WINNER
~~~~~
Weekend Rebels (Wochenendrebellen)
US West Coast Premiere
Directed by Marc Rothemund
Starring Cecilio Andresen, Florian David Fitz, Aylin Tezel
Mirco's family is advised to go to a special school for Jason, his autistic son. He makes a pact to make every effort to stay in school if Mirco helps him find a favorite football club. (89 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
JUNIOR
~~~~~
The Flying Classroom (Das fliegende Klassenzimmer)
North American Premiere
Directed by Carolina Hellsgård
Starring Tom Schilling, Trystan Pütter, Hanna Herzsprung, Jördis Triebel, Leni Deschner
A contemporary vision of the classic novel by Erich Kästner: It tells the story of Martina. She takes up a scholarship at the Johann-Sigismund Gymnasium boarding school. She increasingly finds herself caught between the rivalry between the boarders and the "externals" from the local village. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
Thabo and the Rhino Case
Northern California Premiere
Directed by Mara Eibl-Eibesfeldt
Starring Litlhohonolofatso Litlhakayane, Ava Skuratowski, Kumkani Pilonti
Eleven-year-old Thabo wants to become a private detective like in the movies. If only his home, the small African village of Hlatikulu, was not the most peaceful savannah paradise. But things take a sudden turn when a rhino is murdered in the neighboring safari park because of its precious horn. (87 min. Germany / 2023. In English)
~~~~~~~~
For the past 25 years, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has become the largest festival of German cinema in the Americas, by both audience size and programming scope. In the local arts community, it is a highly anticipated film event in San Francisco. Berlin & Beyond was founded in 1996, within the globally minded mission of the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, which has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Both the institute and the film festival continuously build on the long-standing relationships and partnerships with community, civic, and business partners and sponsors - and the audience. Berlin & Beyond strives to be an open public forum that highlights the diversity, progress, and trends from the current cinematic landscapes of German-speaking countries. The festival's diverse programming captures dynamic stories that connect global and societal conversations, timely topics, insightful ideas, inspiring entertainment, and courageous cinematic art.
A festival of international cinema, over 500 films, produced in over 30 different countries, have screened at Berlin & Beyond, to over 200,000 attendees. It has have welcomed many celebrated filmmakers and screen talents, including Mario Adorf, Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Doris Dörrie, Andreas Dresen, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Bruno Ganz, Juliane Köhler, Frederick Lau, Christiane Paul, Maria Schrader, Tom Schilling, Barbara Sukowa, Michael Verhoeven, Simon Verhoeven, Wim Wenders and Ronald Zehrfeld. Many films screened are special premieres with renowned actors and directors, appearing in person. Each year, as several films are without US release plans, the chance to see them has provided the Berlin & Beyond audience exclusive opportunities.
~~~~~~~~~
BERLIN & BEYOND presents independent films from Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is one of the most important festival of German-language film festivals in the United States.
Since 1996, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has been the leading festival of contemporary German cinema in the Americas, and has presented over 500 motion pictures, along with the presence of celebrated film figures, including Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Florian David Fitz, Bruno Ganz, Werner Herzog, Frederick Lau, Maria Schrader, Barbara Sukowa, and Wim Wenders. Including seasonal programming, Berlin & Beyond receives a combined attendance of over 11,000 people annually.
The Goethe-Institut is Germany's official cultural center comprised of 157 institutes in 98 countries. The Goethe-Institut exists to promote art and films from Germany, the study of the German language, and encourage the international cultural exchange with Germany. Having celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2017, the San Francisco branch has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Its year-round cultural activities include art exhibitions, film screenings, and special events with local cultural institutions. - https://www.goethe.de/ins/us/en/sta/sfr.html
show less
Additional programming, including added films, the Shorts Program 2024, #VirtualFest, and other venues will be announced in the coming days.
~~~~~
OPENING NIGHT FILM
~~~~~
One for the Road
North American Premiere with Special Guest Markus Goller
Directed by Markus Goller
Starring Frederick Lau, Nora Tschirner, Burak Yigit, Godehard Giese
Although in self-denial about his drinking problem, Mark seems to have easily mastered life between his demanding job as a construction manager and rambunctious forays into Berlin's nightlife. A distinctively authentic story about a man facing the obstacles of addiction. (115 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
View Trailer
~~~~~
CINEMA PANORAMA
~~~~~
Girl You Know it's True
North American Premiere
Directed by Simon Verhoeven
Starring Tijan Nije, Elan Ben Ali, Matthias Schweighöfer, Bella Dayne
The highly anticipated Milli Vanilli story comes to the big screen: Dancers Pilatus and Morvan rise to fame in the late 1980's, becoming stars with No.1 hits and winning a Grammy. The duo never sang a word in their songs. As the truth surfaces, it becomes one of the biggest scandals in music history. (124 min. Germany / 2023. In English, German, and some French with English subtitles)
Ingeborg Bachmann - Journey into the Desert (Ingeborg Bachmann - Reise in die Wüste)
Centerpiece Film | California Premiere
Directed by Margarethe von Trotta
Starring Vicky Krieps, Ronald Zehrfeld, Tobias Resch
The remarkable and charismatic Ingeborg Bachmann has conquered the male dominated bastion of German-language literature with her poetry. Amidst professional and personal friction in her relationships, she travels to the desert, where she finds a way back to herself and her writing. (110 min. Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Jordan, Italy / 2023. In German with some French and Italian with English subtitles)
Sophia, Death and Me (Sophia, der Tod und ich)
San Francisco Closing Night Film | US Premiere
Directed by Charly Hübner
Starring Dimitrij Schaad, Anna Maria Mühe, Marc Hosemann, Johanna Gastdorf
Based on the bestselling novel by musician Thees Uhlmann: Reiner's doorbell rings, and standing in front is Morten de Sarg, who is actually his death. Reiner's death is interrupted when the doorbell rings. It's Reiner's ex-girlfriend Sophia, who came to fetch Reiner for their scheduled train trip to visit Reiner's mother for a birthday surprise. Running against time to the train station, they set off on a wild journey that will change all their lives. (98 min. Germany / 2023. In German with some French with English subtitles)
Sun & Concrete (Sonne und Beton)
Northern California Premiere
Directed by David Wnendt
Starring Levy Rico Arcos, Riad Chemali, Rafael Luis Klein-Heßling
Based on the bestselling autobiography by Felix Lobrecht: Four teenage friends - Lukas, Julius, Gino and Sanchez - are trying to survive everyday life in Neukölln, Berlin, between drugs, gangs, rap, violence and boredom. One day, they are forced to make a decision with serious consequences. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
The Teachers' Lounge
Special Screening
Directed by Ilker Çatak
Starring Leonie Benesch, Eva Löbau, Leo Stettnisch
2024 Academy Award Best International Feature Film nominee: When a series of thefts occur in a German middle school, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust among outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and angry students, a young teacher is caught in the middle of complex dynamics. (95 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
GOETHE FORUM
~~~~~
Hao Are You
North American Premiere | Documentary Feature Film
Directed by Dieu Hao Do
His mother blames communism, his uncle an inheritance dispute, the others fall silent. Director Dieu Hao Do explores the fragmentation of his family. The American War in Vietnam scattered them across three continents. Nearly 50 years after their escape, contact between the seven family members has all but broken down. How have traumas from persecution and violence inscribed themselves on the bodies and souls of the survivors and their children? (90 min. Germany / 2023. In German, Cantonese, and Vietnamese with English subtitles)
~~~~~
SWISS FILM & TALKS
~~~~~
Late Bloomers (Die Herbstzeitlosen)
Special Projection in 35 mm Film with Special Guest Bettina Oberli
Directed by Bettina Oberli
Starring Monica Gubser, Annemarie Düringer, Stephanie Glaser, Heidi Maria Glössner
When four older women in Emmental decide to turn the local corner shop into a chic lingerie store, the whole community is thrown into disarray. (90 min. Switzerland / 2006. In Swiss German and German with English subtitles)
Episode of The Night in Question (37 Sekunden)
To be announced: One episode of the TV series directed by Bettina Oberli will screen as part of the Swiss Film & Talks program, prior to the 35 mm projection of "Late Bloomers." (Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
YOUTH 4 GERMAN CINEMA 2024 WINNER
~~~~~
Weekend Rebels (Wochenendrebellen)
US West Coast Premiere
Directed by Marc Rothemund
Starring Cecilio Andresen, Florian David Fitz, Aylin Tezel
Mirco's family is advised to go to a special school for Jason, his autistic son. He makes a pact to make every effort to stay in school if Mirco helps him find a favorite football club. (89 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
JUNIOR
~~~~~
The Flying Classroom (Das fliegende Klassenzimmer)
North American Premiere
Directed by Carolina Hellsgård
Starring Tom Schilling, Trystan Pütter, Hanna Herzsprung, Jördis Triebel, Leni Deschner
A contemporary vision of the classic novel by Erich Kästner: It tells the story of Martina. She takes up a scholarship at the Johann-Sigismund Gymnasium boarding school. She increasingly finds herself caught between the rivalry between the boarders and the "externals" from the local village. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
Thabo and the Rhino Case
Northern California Premiere
Directed by Mara Eibl-Eibesfeldt
Starring Litlhohonolofatso Litlhakayane, Ava Skuratowski, Kumkani Pilonti
Eleven-year-old Thabo wants to become a private detective like in the movies. If only his home, the small African village of Hlatikulu, was not the most peaceful savannah paradise. But things take a sudden turn when a rhino is murdered in the neighboring safari park because of its precious horn. (87 min. Germany / 2023. In English)
~~~~~~~~
For the past 25 years, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has become the largest festival of German cinema in the Americas, by both audience size and programming scope. In the local arts community, it is a highly anticipated film event in San Francisco. Berlin & Beyond was founded in 1996, within the globally minded mission of the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, which has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Both the institute and the film festival continuously build on the long-standing relationships and partnerships with community, civic, and business partners and sponsors - and the audience. Berlin & Beyond strives to be an open public forum that highlights the diversity, progress, and trends from the current cinematic landscapes of German-speaking countries. The festival's diverse programming captures dynamic stories that connect global and societal conversations, timely topics, insightful ideas, inspiring entertainment, and courageous cinematic art.
A festival of international cinema, over 500 films, produced in over 30 different countries, have screened at Berlin & Beyond, to over 200,000 attendees. It has have welcomed many celebrated filmmakers and screen talents, including Mario Adorf, Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Doris Dörrie, Andreas Dresen, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Bruno Ganz, Juliane Köhler, Frederick Lau, Christiane Paul, Maria Schrader, Tom Schilling, Barbara Sukowa, Michael Verhoeven, Simon Verhoeven, Wim Wenders and Ronald Zehrfeld. Many films screened are special premieres with renowned actors and directors, appearing in person. Each year, as several films are without US release plans, the chance to see them has provided the Berlin & Beyond audience exclusive opportunities.
~~~~~~~~~
BERLIN & BEYOND presents independent films from Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is one of the most important festival of German-language film festivals in the United States.
Since 1996, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has been the leading festival of contemporary German cinema in the Americas, and has presented over 500 motion pictures, along with the presence of celebrated film figures, including Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Florian David Fitz, Bruno Ganz, Werner Herzog, Frederick Lau, Maria Schrader, Barbara Sukowa, and Wim Wenders. Including seasonal programming, Berlin & Beyond receives a combined attendance of over 11,000 people annually.
The Goethe-Institut is Germany's official cultural center comprised of 157 institutes in 98 countries. The Goethe-Institut exists to promote art and films from Germany, the study of the German language, and encourage the international cultural exchange with Germany. Having celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2017, the San Francisco branch has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Its year-round cultural activities include art exhibitions, film screenings, and special events with local cultural institutions. - https://www.goethe.de/ins/us/en/sta/sfr.html
The 28th Berlin & Beyond Film Festival, presented by the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, will run April 18-20, 2024 at the historic Roxie Theater in San Francisco's Mission District, and April 21-22, 2024 at Rialto Cinemas Elmwood in Berkeley. North America's leading festival of contemporary German cinema unveils the Official Selections of Feature Films.
Additional programming, including added films, the Shorts Program 2024, #VirtualFest, and other venues will be announced in the coming days.
~~~~~
OPENING NIGHT FILM
~~~~~
One for the Road
North American Premiere with Special Guest Markus Goller
Directed by Markus Goller
Starring Frederick Lau, Nora Tschirner, Burak Yigit, Godehard Giese
Although in self-denial about his drinking problem, Mark seems to have easily mastered life between his demanding job as a construction manager and rambunctious forays into Berlin's nightlife. A distinctively authentic story about a man facing the obstacles of addiction. (115 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
View Trailer
~~~~~
CINEMA PANORAMA
~~~~~
Girl You Know it's True
North American Premiere
Directed by Simon Verhoeven
Starring Tijan Nije, Elan Ben Ali, Matthias Schweighöfer, Bella Dayne
The highly anticipated Milli Vanilli story comes to the big screen: Dancers Pilatus and Morvan rise to fame in the late 1980's, becoming stars with No.1 hits and winning a Grammy. The duo never sang a word in their songs. As the truth surfaces, it becomes one of the biggest scandals in music history. (124 min. Germany / 2023. In English, German, and some French with English subtitles)
Ingeborg Bachmann - Journey into the Desert (Ingeborg Bachmann - Reise in die Wüste)
Centerpiece Film | California Premiere
Directed by Margarethe von Trotta
Starring Vicky Krieps, Ronald Zehrfeld, Tobias Resch
The remarkable and charismatic Ingeborg Bachmann has conquered the male dominated bastion of German-language literature with her poetry. Amidst professional and personal friction in her relationships, she travels to the desert, where she finds a way back to herself and her writing. (110 min. Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Jordan, Italy / 2023. In German with some French and Italian with English subtitles)
Sophia, Death and Me (Sophia, der Tod und ich)
San Francisco Closing Night Film | US Premiere
Directed by Charly Hübner
Starring Dimitrij Schaad, Anna Maria Mühe, Marc Hosemann, Johanna Gastdorf
Based on the bestselling novel by musician Thees Uhlmann: Reiner's doorbell rings, and standing in front is Morten de Sarg, who is actually his death. Reiner's death is interrupted when the doorbell rings. It's Reiner's ex-girlfriend Sophia, who came to fetch Reiner for their scheduled train trip to visit Reiner's mother for a birthday surprise. Running against time to the train station, they set off on a wild journey that will change all their lives. (98 min. Germany / 2023. In German with some French with English subtitles)
Sun & Concrete (Sonne und Beton)
Northern California Premiere
Directed by David Wnendt
Starring Levy Rico Arcos, Riad Chemali, Rafael Luis Klein-Heßling
Based on the bestselling autobiography by Felix Lobrecht: Four teenage friends - Lukas, Julius, Gino and Sanchez - are trying to survive everyday life in Neukölln, Berlin, between drugs, gangs, rap, violence and boredom. One day, they are forced to make a decision with serious consequences. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
The Teachers' Lounge
Special Screening
Directed by Ilker Çatak
Starring Leonie Benesch, Eva Löbau, Leo Stettnisch
2024 Academy Award Best International Feature Film nominee: When a series of thefts occur in a German middle school, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust among outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and angry students, a young teacher is caught in the middle of complex dynamics. (95 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
GOETHE FORUM
~~~~~
Hao Are You
North American Premiere | Documentary Feature Film
Directed by Dieu Hao Do
His mother blames communism, his uncle an inheritance dispute, the others fall silent. Director Dieu Hao Do explores the fragmentation of his family. The American War in Vietnam scattered them across three continents. Nearly 50 years after their escape, contact between the seven family members has all but broken down. How have traumas from persecution and violence inscribed themselves on the bodies and souls of the survivors and their children? (90 min. Germany / 2023. In German, Cantonese, and Vietnamese with English subtitles)
~~~~~
SWISS FILM & TALKS
~~~~~
Late Bloomers (Die Herbstzeitlosen)
Special Projection in 35 mm Film with Special Guest Bettina Oberli
Directed by Bettina Oberli
Starring Monica Gubser, Annemarie Düringer, Stephanie Glaser, Heidi Maria Glössner
When four older women in Emmental decide to turn the local corner shop into a chic lingerie store, the whole community is thrown into disarray. (90 min. Switzerland / 2006. In Swiss German and German with English subtitles)
Episode of The Night in Question (37 Sekunden)
To be announced: One episode of the TV series directed by Bettina Oberli will screen as part of the Swiss Film & Talks program, prior to the 35 mm projection of "Late Bloomers." (Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
YOUTH 4 GERMAN CINEMA 2024 WINNER
~~~~~
Weekend Rebels (Wochenendrebellen)
US West Coast Premiere
Directed by Marc Rothemund
Starring Cecilio Andresen, Florian David Fitz, Aylin Tezel
Mirco's family is advised to go to a special school for Jason, his autistic son. He makes a pact to make every effort to stay in school if Mirco helps him find a favorite football club. (89 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
~~~~~
JUNIOR
~~~~~
The Flying Classroom (Das fliegende Klassenzimmer)
North American Premiere
Directed by Carolina Hellsgård
Starring Tom Schilling, Trystan Pütter, Hanna Herzsprung, Jördis Triebel, Leni Deschner
A contemporary vision of the classic novel by Erich Kästner: It tells the story of Martina. She takes up a scholarship at the Johann-Sigismund Gymnasium boarding school. She increasingly finds herself caught between the rivalry between the boarders and the "externals" from the local village. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
Thabo and the Rhino Case
Northern California Premiere
Directed by Mara Eibl-Eibesfeldt
Starring Litlhohonolofatso Litlhakayane, Ava Skuratowski, Kumkani Pilonti
Eleven-year-old Thabo wants to become a private detective like in the movies. If only his home, the small African village of Hlatikulu, was not the most peaceful savannah paradise. But things take a sudden turn when a rhino is murdered in the neighboring safari park because of its precious horn. (87 min. Germany / 2023. In English)
~~~~~~~~
For the past 25 years, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has become the largest festival of German cinema in the Americas, by both audience size and programming scope. In the local arts community, it is a highly anticipated film event in San Francisco. Berlin & Beyond was founded in 1996, within the globally minded mission of the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, which has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Both the institute and the film festival continuously build on the long-standing relationships and partnerships with community, civic, and business partners and sponsors - and the audience. Berlin & Beyond strives to be an open public forum that highlights the diversity, progress, and trends from the current cinematic landscapes of German-speaking countries. The festival's diverse programming captures dynamic stories that connect global and societal conversations, timely topics, insightful ideas, inspiring entertainment, and courageous cinematic art.
A festival of international cinema, over 500 films, produced in over 30 different countries, have screened at Berlin & Beyond, to over 200,000 attendees. It has have welcomed many celebrated filmmakers and screen talents, including Mario Adorf, Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Doris Dörrie, Andreas Dresen, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Bruno Ganz, Juliane Köhler, Frederick Lau, Christiane Paul, Maria Schrader, Tom Schilling, Barbara Sukowa, Michael Verhoeven, Simon Verhoeven, Wim Wenders and Ronald Zehrfeld. Many films screened are special premieres with renowned actors and directors, appearing in person. Each year, as several films are without US release plans, the chance to see them has provided the Berlin & Beyond audience exclusive opportunities.
~~~~~~~~~
BERLIN & BEYOND presents independent films from Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is one of the most important festival of German-language film festivals in the United States.
Since 1996, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has been the leading festival of contemporary German cinema in the Americas, and has presented over 500 motion pictures, along with the presence of celebrated film figures, including Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Florian David Fitz, Bruno Ganz, Werner Herzog, Frederick Lau, Maria Schrader, Barbara Sukowa, and Wim Wenders. Including seasonal programming, Berlin & Beyond receives a combined attendance of over 11,000 people annually.
The Goethe-Institut is Germany's official cultural center comprised of 157 institutes in 98 countries. The Goethe-Institut exists to promote art and films from Germany, the study of the German language, and encourage the international cultural exchange with Germany. Having celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2017, the San Francisco branch has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Its year-round cultural activities include art exhibitions, film screenings, and special events with local cultural institutions. - https://www.goethe.de/ins/us/en/sta/sfr.html
read more
Additional programming, including added films, the Shorts Program 2024, #VirtualFest, and other venues will be announced in the coming days.
~~~~~
OPENING NIGHT FILM
~~~~~
One for the Road
North American Premiere with Special Guest Markus Goller
Directed by Markus Goller
Starring Frederick Lau, Nora Tschirner, Burak Yigit, Godehard Giese
Although in self-denial about his drinking problem, Mark seems to have easily mastered life between his demanding job as a construction manager and rambunctious forays into Berlin's nightlife. A distinctively authentic story about a man facing the obstacles of addiction. (115 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
View Trailer
~~~~~
CINEMA PANORAMA
~~~~~
Girl You Know it's True
North American Premiere
Directed by Simon Verhoeven
Starring Tijan Nije, Elan Ben Ali, Matthias Schweighöfer, Bella Dayne
The highly anticipated Milli Vanilli story comes to the big screen: Dancers Pilatus and Morvan rise to fame in the late 1980's, becoming stars with No.1 hits and winning a Grammy. The duo never sang a word in their songs. As the truth surfaces, it becomes one of the biggest scandals in music history. (124 min. Germany / 2023. In English, German, and some French with English subtitles)
Ingeborg Bachmann - Journey into the Desert (Ingeborg Bachmann - Reise in die Wüste)
Centerpiece Film | California Premiere
Directed by Margarethe von Trotta
Starring Vicky Krieps, Ronald Zehrfeld, Tobias Resch
The remarkable and charismatic Ingeborg Bachmann has conquered the male dominated bastion of German-language literature with her poetry. Amidst professional and personal friction in her relationships, she travels to the desert, where she finds a way back to herself and her writing. (110 min. Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Jordan, Italy / 2023. In German with some French and Italian with English subtitles)
Sophia, Death and Me (Sophia, der Tod und ich)
San Francisco Closing Night Film | US Premiere
Directed by Charly Hübner
Starring Dimitrij Schaad, Anna Maria Mühe, Marc Hosemann, Johanna Gastdorf
Based on the bestselling novel by musician Thees Uhlmann: Reiner's doorbell rings, and standing in front is Morten de Sarg, who is actually his death. Reiner's death is interrupted when the doorbell rings. It's Reiner's ex-girlfriend Sophia, who came to fetch Reiner for their scheduled train trip to visit Reiner's mother for a birthday surprise. Running against time to the train station, they set off on a wild journey that will change all their lives. (98 min. Germany / 2023. In German with some French with English subtitles)
Sun & Concrete (Sonne und Beton)
Northern California Premiere
Directed by David Wnendt
Starring Levy Rico Arcos, Riad Chemali, Rafael Luis Klein-Heßling
Based on the bestselling autobiography by Felix Lobrecht: Four teenage friends - Lukas, Julius, Gino and Sanchez - are trying to survive everyday life in Neukölln, Berlin, between drugs, gangs, rap, violence and boredom. One day, they are forced to make a decision with serious consequences. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
The Teachers' Lounge
Special Screening
Directed by Ilker Çatak
Starring Leonie Benesch, Eva Löbau, Leo Stettnisch
2024 Academy Award Best International Feature Film nominee: When a series of thefts occur in a German middle school, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust among outraged parents, opinionated colleagues, and angry students, a young teacher is caught in the middle of complex dynamics. (95 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
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GOETHE FORUM
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Hao Are You
North American Premiere | Documentary Feature Film
Directed by Dieu Hao Do
His mother blames communism, his uncle an inheritance dispute, the others fall silent. Director Dieu Hao Do explores the fragmentation of his family. The American War in Vietnam scattered them across three continents. Nearly 50 years after their escape, contact between the seven family members has all but broken down. How have traumas from persecution and violence inscribed themselves on the bodies and souls of the survivors and their children? (90 min. Germany / 2023. In German, Cantonese, and Vietnamese with English subtitles)
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SWISS FILM & TALKS
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Late Bloomers (Die Herbstzeitlosen)
Special Projection in 35 mm Film with Special Guest Bettina Oberli
Directed by Bettina Oberli
Starring Monica Gubser, Annemarie Düringer, Stephanie Glaser, Heidi Maria Glössner
When four older women in Emmental decide to turn the local corner shop into a chic lingerie store, the whole community is thrown into disarray. (90 min. Switzerland / 2006. In Swiss German and German with English subtitles)
Episode of The Night in Question (37 Sekunden)
To be announced: One episode of the TV series directed by Bettina Oberli will screen as part of the Swiss Film & Talks program, prior to the 35 mm projection of "Late Bloomers." (Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
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YOUTH 4 GERMAN CINEMA 2024 WINNER
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Weekend Rebels (Wochenendrebellen)
US West Coast Premiere
Directed by Marc Rothemund
Starring Cecilio Andresen, Florian David Fitz, Aylin Tezel
Mirco's family is advised to go to a special school for Jason, his autistic son. He makes a pact to make every effort to stay in school if Mirco helps him find a favorite football club. (89 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
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JUNIOR
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The Flying Classroom (Das fliegende Klassenzimmer)
North American Premiere
Directed by Carolina Hellsgård
Starring Tom Schilling, Trystan Pütter, Hanna Herzsprung, Jördis Triebel, Leni Deschner
A contemporary vision of the classic novel by Erich Kästner: It tells the story of Martina. She takes up a scholarship at the Johann-Sigismund Gymnasium boarding school. She increasingly finds herself caught between the rivalry between the boarders and the "externals" from the local village. (119 min. Germany / 2023. In German with English subtitles)
Thabo and the Rhino Case
Northern California Premiere
Directed by Mara Eibl-Eibesfeldt
Starring Litlhohonolofatso Litlhakayane, Ava Skuratowski, Kumkani Pilonti
Eleven-year-old Thabo wants to become a private detective like in the movies. If only his home, the small African village of Hlatikulu, was not the most peaceful savannah paradise. But things take a sudden turn when a rhino is murdered in the neighboring safari park because of its precious horn. (87 min. Germany / 2023. In English)
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For the past 25 years, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has become the largest festival of German cinema in the Americas, by both audience size and programming scope. In the local arts community, it is a highly anticipated film event in San Francisco. Berlin & Beyond was founded in 1996, within the globally minded mission of the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, which has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Both the institute and the film festival continuously build on the long-standing relationships and partnerships with community, civic, and business partners and sponsors - and the audience. Berlin & Beyond strives to be an open public forum that highlights the diversity, progress, and trends from the current cinematic landscapes of German-speaking countries. The festival's diverse programming captures dynamic stories that connect global and societal conversations, timely topics, insightful ideas, inspiring entertainment, and courageous cinematic art.
A festival of international cinema, over 500 films, produced in over 30 different countries, have screened at Berlin & Beyond, to over 200,000 attendees. It has have welcomed many celebrated filmmakers and screen talents, including Mario Adorf, Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Doris Dörrie, Andreas Dresen, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Bruno Ganz, Juliane Köhler, Frederick Lau, Christiane Paul, Maria Schrader, Tom Schilling, Barbara Sukowa, Michael Verhoeven, Simon Verhoeven, Wim Wenders and Ronald Zehrfeld. Many films screened are special premieres with renowned actors and directors, appearing in person. Each year, as several films are without US release plans, the chance to see them has provided the Berlin & Beyond audience exclusive opportunities.
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BERLIN & BEYOND presents independent films from Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is one of the most important festival of German-language film festivals in the United States.
Since 1996, the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival has been the leading festival of contemporary German cinema in the Americas, and has presented over 500 motion pictures, along with the presence of celebrated film figures, including Fatih Akin, Moritz Bleibtreu, Daniel Brühl, Lars Eidinger, Hannelore Elsner, Florian David Fitz, Bruno Ganz, Werner Herzog, Frederick Lau, Maria Schrader, Barbara Sukowa, and Wim Wenders. Including seasonal programming, Berlin & Beyond receives a combined attendance of over 11,000 people annually.
The Goethe-Institut is Germany's official cultural center comprised of 157 institutes in 98 countries. The Goethe-Institut exists to promote art and films from Germany, the study of the German language, and encourage the international cultural exchange with Germany. Having celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2017, the San Francisco branch has been promoting German culture and language since 1967. Its year-round cultural activities include art exhibitions, film screenings, and special events with local cultural institutions. - https://www.goethe.de/ins/us/en/sta/sfr.html
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