Many thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Berlin Lift-Off. It was great to see so many filmmakers and film enthusiasts filling the UNION Filmtheater, in support of both local and international indie film.
The judges’ votes have been counted and added to the audience’s feedback.
Huge congratulations to the filmmakers who screened with us, who all did themselves proud. A special well done to the following films.
Photos from the event can be seen on the Berlin Lift-Off Facebook Page.
Festival Winners
Best Feature
(next screening with Lift-Off in Manchester)
The Debt
Dir. Stefan Kjær Olsen
Synopsis: Michael is finally leading a stable life with his girlfriend when his big brother Johnny suddenly, after being gone for 2 years, appears. Johnny’s in big trouble because he owes a lot of money to some criminals. Michael reluctantly agrees to help. But you don’t get that kind of money in a short time without getting your hands dirty.
Best Documentary
(next screening with Lift-Off in Tokyo)
The Human Face
Dir. Aline Pimentel
Synopsis: By giving meaning to each and every mark on his sculptures, artist Kazuhiro gives meaning to his own life. Experiencing what is behind every wrinkle of time on the human face, transforms a superficial mask into a window to the soul.
Best Short Live Action Narrative
(next screening with Lift-Off in Manchester)
The Peculiar Abilities of Mr. Mahler
Dir. Paul Philipp
Synopsis: East Germany, 1987: The special investigator Mahler is said to have paranormal abilities. The police assigns him to solve the case of the 6-year-old Henry Kiefer, who is missing for weeks now, before this issue leads to political tensions with the West. But then he brings something to light that makes this family tragedy especially political…