© DOK.fest München
Austria 2023 – Director: Kurt Langbein – Original language: German – Subtitles: English – Duration: 101 min.
"Project Ballhausplatz: The Rise and Fall of Sebastian Kurz" by Kurt Langbein offers an incisive examination of the controversial career of one of Austria’s most polarizing politicians. The film critiques Kurz's populist tactics, showcasing how he skillfully used media manipulation and flashy campaigns to create a favorable public image. Through archival footage and expert commentary, it reveals the disturbing reality behind his rise to power and the implications of his political strategies. This documentary serves as a powerful warning about the dangers of modern populism and the manipulation of public perception in politics.
© DOK.fest München
France, Croatia, Hungary 2024 – Directors: Bálint Révész, Dávid Mikulán – Original language: Hungarian – Subtitles: English – Duration: 90 min.
An award-winning documentary that shows the life of young Sanyi from the working-class districts of Budapest. Authentic, emotional and stylistically unique - Dok.edit Award - presented by Adobe - Winner 2024 captures the growth of a child in a harsh world over ten years.
© DOK.fest München
Jenseits von Schuld
Germany 2024 – Directed by: Katharina Köster, Katrin Nemec – Original language: German – Subtitles: English – Duration: 79 min.
Beyond Guilt (original German title: Jenseits von Schuld) offers a striking portrayal of the parents of serial killer Nils Högel, vividly highlighting the emotional burdens they have endured for years. Directors Katharina Köster and Katrin Nemec succeed in depicting the complex psychological struggles faced by these individuals.
The film stands out with its unique color grading and high production quality, drawing viewers into the world of the perpetrator’s family. Instead of presenting the usual perspective of victims, the focus shifts to the families of offenders. This often-overlooked viewpoint reveals that they, too, suffer from the wrongdoings committed by their child. They face not only the public stigma but also the relentless media coverage surrounding their son’s crimes.
"I’ve dealt with it, just like I’ve dealt with it for 20 years—sometimes more, sometimes less," one parent describes the ongoing psychological strain. The film underscores the challenge of processing their feelings while trying to maintain contact with a child whose actions are unimaginable.
The announcement of a new trial reopens old wounds, forcing the protagonists to confront their painful reality once again. Through this brave exploration, Köster and Nemec create a precise psychological portrait of a couple facing the truth.
Beyond Guilt was awarded the kinokino Audience Award and provides an important perspective on the far-reaching consequences of crime for the families of offenders.
© DOK.fest München
Johatsu - Into thin Air
Germany, Japan 2024 – Directed by: Andreas Hartmann, Arata Mori – Original language: Japanese – Subtitles: German, English – Duration: 86 min.
In Johatsu (蒸発 – “Evaporation”), directors Arata Mori and Andreas Hartmann delve into the hidden reality in Japan, where approximately 100,000 people disappear each year. Some of these individuals utilize "Night Moving Companies" to escape unhappy relationships, while others struggle to cope with immense societal pressure or seek to extricate themselves from criminal entanglements.
The film compellingly illustrates how a fresh start often begins in isolation, raising urgent questions about personal identity. Mori and Hartmann not only provide insight into the obscure practice of disappearing but also explore the complexities of human nature.
As I watched Johatsu, I found the world described in the film completely unfamiliar and almost imaginary or artifical. The countless reasons why people in Japan choose to disappear fascinated and shocked me at the same time. I was particularly struck by the chilling professionalism of a woman who facilitated these relocations, offering services such as suicide assistance alongside her other work. She approached her business with a stark detachment, seemingly managing it all on her own.
The collaboration between German and Japanese filmmakers in Johatsu is an extraordinary crossover, blending diverse cultural perspectives and storytelling techniques. This partnership enriches the documentary, creating a unique narrative that resonates across borders and highlights the universal struggles of those who choose to disappear.
Johatsu was awarded the VIKTOR Main Competition DOK.international Award, captivating audiences with its cinematic aesthetics that vividly capture the neon-lit nights of Japan.
© DOK.fest München
Just hear me out
Poland 2024 – Directed by: Małgorzata Imielska – Original language: Polish – Subtitles: English – Duration: 73 min.
In Just Hear Me Out, we witness the profound struggles of 19-year-old Gosia as she navigates her life with schizophrenia. The film presents a raw and intimate portrayal of her reality, highlighted through her mother’s reflections during online meetings with other families. This unique perspective allows viewers to grasp the immense emotional weight carried by both mother and daughter.
What resonates strongly throughout the film are the deeply personal moments captured in a vlog-style format. These heartfelt glimpses into Gosia’s world draw the audience in, creating an emotional impact that lingers long after viewing. The film confronts themes I had previously approached only superficially, shedding light on the true challenges individuals face when dealing with mental health issues.
The path to recovery is depicted as fraught with difficulty, especially against the backdrop of a harsh environment that seems to amplify the struggles. As Gosia attempts to rebuild her life—juggling university and friendships—her journey serves as a testament to resilience amid overwhelming odds.
Nominated for the VIKTOR Main Competition DOK.international, Just Hear Me Out invites audiences to reflect on the realities of mental illness. It opens a window into the complexities of familial love and the struggle for autonomy, ultimately offering a moving exploration of hope and determination in the face of adversity.
© DOK.fest München
Trust Me
Germany, Poland 2024 – Directed by: Joanna Ratajczak – Original language: German, English, Polish – Subtitles: English – Duration: 88 min.
"Trust Me" explores the complex theme of freedom within the context of relationships. While the film’s artistic style was intriguing, I found myself less emotionally engaged with the storyline. Despite its abstract and sometimes bizarre elements, it didn't resonate with me on a deeper level. However, it does offer a unique perspective on an unconventional relationship structure, shedding light on the struggles and dynamics that arise when societal expectations clash with personal desires.
Sebastian, a man grappling with his need for autonomy, questions the foundations of his monogamous marriage to Alicja after several years and the birth of their two children. His search for freedom becomes an urgent force, revealing the cracks in their seemingly perfect family life. As they navigate the delicate balance between love, personal independence, and societal norms, Alicja finds herself pushed to her limits. Over the course of six years, director Joanna Ratajczak provides an intimate look at a family dynamic that slowly unravels, capturing both the beauty and the turmoil of their journey.