Greetings from the mayor of Munich

Portrait OB Reiter 2019 Neu

Mayor Dieter Reiter

Founded by Eberhard Hauff in 1983, FILMFEST MÜNCHEN has long been a permanent fixture among the major events in the global film industry — as an outstanding platform for German and international film, and no less as a wonderful festival for the general public. Nowhere else can you get up close and personal with so many stars. Filmmakers and their teams come from all over the world to screen their latest works, interact with audiences, and network with other industry professionals. All this against the backdrop of an always excellently curated lineup of world premieres and German premieres, often complemented by rare cinematic gems which only make it back to the big screen here at the Filmfest.

In every respect, FILMFEST MÜNCHEN is a premium selection of the international cinema of today and of those involved in it — with every bit of the glitz and glamour. Stars such as Emma Thompson, Antonio Banderas, and Ralph Fiennes have attended recent festivals to receive awards honoring their achievements in the art of film. Local stars routinely attend as well; last year, these included Dominik Graf for the premiere of a new TV movie and Doris Dörrie, to whom the festival paid special tribute. Both are noted and accomplished directors who live in Munich and whose films cause a sensation far beyond the city limits. Thus, in addition to being one of the most notable events for any moviegoer, FILMFEST MÜNCHEN is a shining advertisement for Munich as a home to film.

A heartfelt thank you to festival director Diana Iljine, artistic director Christoph Gröner, and the entire team of curators and staff, whose passion and dedication ensure that every year, we’ve been able to watch a fresh selection of fascinating and exciting feature films and documentaries from all over the world in Munich! For 40 years, no less, under the direction of Eberhard Hauff, then Andreas Ströhl, on up to Diana Iljine. I’d like to congratulate FILMFEST MÜNCHEN on achieving this milestone and wish it all the best for the future.