Filmfest Munich concludes with stars, heat, and a jab at Trump

The Filmfest Munich has drawn to a close after ten days filled with films, celebrities, and warm weather, reportedly attracting around 95,000 visitors. This figure represents an increase of 4,000 attendees compared to the previous year, solidifying the festival's reputation as a vibrant summer event.

The festival's final weekend featured award ceremonies, a closing party, and an appearance by actor David Duchovny. Duchovny, known for his roles in "The X-Files" and "Californication," was honored with the non-monetary CineMerit Award. During his acceptance speech, the actor took a jab at U.S. President Donald Trump's slogan, stating, "It is pain and loss that unite us, not success or great triumphs." He questioned the constant emphasis on winning in America, suggesting a need to embrace loss and connection instead.

“

It is pain and loss that unite us, not success or great triumphs.

Among the film awards, the German co-production "Strange River" by Catalan director Jaume Claret Muxart received the highest prize of 100,000 euros. The film, which was also shot in Lauingen, tells a coming-of-age story about a boy named Dídac cycling along the Danube with his family and encountering a captivating boy. The CineCoPro Award, sponsored by the FilmFernsehFonds Bayern, recognizes international films with German involvement.

Other accolades included the award for best international debut film, which went to Chinese director Jing Zou for her family drama "A Girl Unknown." The children's film category was won by Margherita Spampinato's "My Summer with Nonna." The audience also had a say, choosing "Favorite People - The Extraordinary Friendship of Agnes & Amir" as the most popular German film and "If Only the Year Had 364 Days" by Almourad Aldeeb as the audience's favorite international film.

“

But what is this whole winning thing anyway? Let's lose for a change. Let's lose, hug each other and say: We are all losers. Can we love each other now?