Honoring Holocaust Victims: A Moving Tribute on Kinotag

The Eyes Wide Open Cinema Day – Keeping the Memory of the Holocaust Alive

In the wake of rising antisemitism during the Gaza conflict and the surge of dictatorial and right-wing populist regimes, it becomes crucial to keep the solemn reminder of the Nazi era and the Holocaust alive. To address this, the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility, and Future (EVZ) has launched a new nationwide initiative on January 27th, the annual Day of Remembrance for the Victims of National Socialism: the Augen auf-Kinotag.

The initiative kicks off in 2025 in three cities – Berlin, Frankfurt am Main, and Rostock – and aims to expand nationwide in the coming years. The event will feature a lineup of films that explore various aspects of the Nazi regime and the Holocaust, including "In Liebe, Eure Hilde," a poignant portrayal of resistance fighter Hilde Coppi by Andreas Dresen. Also on the roster is Jesse Eisenberg’s "A Real Pain," following two American cousins tracing their family history in Poland, and a preview of Michel Hazanavicius’ "Das kostbarste aller Güter," a story of compassion amidst the horrors of Auschwitz.

The film screenings will be accompanied by discussions, some featuring prominent guests like Caroline Link, Andreas Dresen, Christian Petzold, and Michel Hazanavicius. While the Kinotag is open to all age groups, its primary aim is to engage and educate young audiences.

Overview of the Program on January 27, 2025

Berlin, Filmtheater am Friedrichshain (Bötzowstraße 1-5)

• Morning – SCHOOL CINEMA OFFERS (by appointment)
  • 9:30 AM: "IN LIEBE, EURE HILDE," Directed by Andreas Dresen
  • Moderated discussion with director Andreas Dresen
  • 10:00 AM: "DAS TAGEBUCH DER ANNE FRANK," Directed by Hans Steinbichler
  • Moderated discussion with lead actress Lea van Acken
• Afternoon – SPECIAL EVENT
  • 4:30 PM: Special Event: "A REAL PAIN," Written & Directed by Jesse Eisenberg
  • Introduced by Fabian Grischkat with a surprise guest
• Evening – AUDIENCE PREMIERE
  • 7:30 PM: Audience Premiere: "DAS KOSTBARSTE ALLER GÜTER," Directed by Michel Hazanavicius
  • Introduction by Dr. Andrea Depot and Dr. Dennis Riffel
  • Panel discussion on the relevance of the past with key figures.
    

    Frankfurt/Main, Cinéma (Roßmarkt 7)
    

• Morning – SCHOOL CINEMA OFFERS (by appointment)
  • 9:00 AM: "ALS HITLER DAS ROSA KANINCHEN STAHL," Directed by Caroline Link
  • Moderated discussion with director Caroline Link
  • 10:00 AM: "IN LIEBE, EURE HILDE," Directed by Andreas Dresen
  • Moderated discussion with producer Claudia Steffen & Thomas Altmeyer
• Afternoon – SPECIAL EVENT
  • 4:30 PM: Special Event: "A REAL PAIN," Written & Directed by Jesse Eisenberg
  • Presented by Christina Ann Zalamea
• Evening – AUDIENCE PREMIERE
  • 7:30 PM: Audience Premiere: "DAS KOSTBARSTE ALLER GÜTER," Directed by Michel Hazanavicius
  • Opening remarks by Jakob Meyer and Prof. Dr. Dr. Michel Friedman
  • Panel discussion on the impact of the past with distinguished guests.
    

    Rostock, Kino Metropol (Barnstorfer Weg 4)
    

• Morning – SCHOOL CINEMA OFFERS (by appointment)
  • 8:00 AM: "TREASURE– FAMILIE IST EIN FREMDES LAND," Directed by Julia von Heinz
  • Virtual discussion with director Julia von Heinz
  • 11:00 AM: "TRANSIT," Directed by Christian Petzold
  • Discussion with director Christian Petzold
• Afternoon – SPECIAL EVENT
  • 4:30 PM: Special Event: "A REAL PAIN," Written & Directed by Jesse Eisenberg
  • With guest appearance and introduction
• Evening – AUDIENCE PREMIERE
  • 7:30 PM: Audience Premiere: "DAS KOSTBARSTE ALLER GÜTER," Directed by Michel Hazanavicius
  • Welcoming remarks by Dr. Ralf Possekel and Knut Elstermann
  • Panel discussion on the relevance of the past with local experts.

    Visit augenauf-kinotag.de for additional information and film materials.

    Conclusion
    

    The Augen auf-Kinotag is a vital initiative to ensure the memory of the Holocaust and Nazi era remains vivid in our collective consciousness. Through film screenings, discussions, and engaging events, the initiative aims to educate and inspire audiences, especially the younger generation, to reflect on the past and its significance today.

    Frequently Asked Questions
    

    5. What is the significance of the Augen auf-Kinotag initiative?
  • The Augen auf-Kinotag initiative aims to keep the memory of the Holocaust and Nazi era alive through film screenings and discussions, engaging audiences, especially young people.
    6. Who are some of the notable guests participating in the event?
  • Prominent guests like Caroline Link, Andreas Dresen, Christian Petzold, and Michel Hazanavicius will be part of the Augen auf-Kinotag initiative.
    7. How can I participate in the Augen auf-Kinotag event?
  • You can attend the screenings and discussions at the designated locations in Berlin, Frankfurt am Main, and Rostock by following the schedule provided on the official website.
    8. What types of films are featured in the Augen auf-Kinotag event?
  • The event showcases films that explore different aspects of the Nazi regime and the Holocaust, offering diverse perspectives and engaging narratives.
    9. Why is it important to engage young audiences in events like Augen auf-Kinotag?
  • Engaging young audiences in events like Augen auf-Kinotag is crucial for educating them about the historical significance of the Holocaust and fostering a sense of remembrance and responsibility.
    10. How can I learn more about the films featured in the Augen auf-Kinotag event?
  • Visit the official website of Augen auf-Kinotag for additional information, including film materials and resources for download.

    By embracing initiatives like the Augen auf-Kinotag, we honor the past, learn from history, and strive for a more compassionate and informed future.