The Festival of German Cinema 2023 in Beijing, held at the Goethe-Institut, recently opened its doors with the premiere of a German film that tells a touching family story. This event is part of the Institute’s broader efforts to offer Chinese audiences a slice of German culture and foster a deeper mutual understanding between Germany and China.
Robin Mallick, the head of the Goethe-Institut in Beijing, described the festival as a celebration of the “diversity of art.” The festival’s opening film, “When Will It be Again Like It Never Was Before” directed by Sonja Heiss, is one of 12 productions being screened at the Institute from November 18-26, all accessible to the public free of charge.
These 12 films are unique in their genres and narratives. “The Forest Maker,” one of Mallick’s personal favorites, is a documentary that explores environmental issues. Directed by Volker Schlöndorff, a prominent figure in Germany’s avant-garde cinema, this 2021 film tells the story of farmholders in Africa and agronomist Tony Rinaudo. Schlöndorff directed this film at the age of 82, showcasing his enduring influence in the world of cinema.
Another highlight of the festival is “Dancing Pina,” a tribute to the renowned German dancer Pina Bausch. Additionally, the drama “In a Land That No Longer Exists” delves into the socio-cultural complexities of East Germany through the story of a model navigating the fashion industry.
The selection of these films goes beyond merely showcasing German culture; they portray the distinct ‘personality’ of contemporary German cinema. Through these works, the festival addresses universal themes such as environmental change, family dynamics, and the interplay of individual and collective identities.
The Festival of German Cinema in 2023 stands out for its scheduling, with two events taking place in a single year. The earlier session was held in March, capitalizing on the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in China.
Mallick’s commitment to his role in China remained steadfast despite the challenges brought by the pandemic. He viewed his tenure in China as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, never considering leaving his post.
In addition to the film festival, the Goethe-Institut has launched several initiatives in 2023 to promote cultural exchange. The “798 Tea House” project is one such initiative, providing a space for cultural and artistic dialogue, envisioned as a utopia for free thinking.
The Institute also facilitated the arrival of three blockbuster plays from the Berliner Theatertreffen in China and ran an artist residency program between China and Germany. One German artist, fascinated by Chinese opera culture, had the opportunity to delve into Beijing’s rich Peking Opera heritage through this program.
Mallick emphasizes the importance of firsthand experiences in understanding different cultures. He believes that only by visiting and experiencing a country like China can one grasp the complexities of its cultural and social realities.
Mallick’s journey with China began long before his current role. His first encounter with the country was in Shanghai in 2008, where he was struck by the city’s rapid modernization and vibrant cultural scene. For Mallick, China represents an incredibly exciting and dynamic country.
The Festival of German Cinema 2023 at the Goethe-Institut in Beijing is more than just a film festival; it’s a bridge for cultural exchange, an opportunity for Chinese audiences to immerse themselves in the depths of German cinema and culture, and a testament to the enduring power of art in connecting diverse worlds.
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