This year’s FOKUS: Films from Germany programme delves into the multifaceted concept of identity, weaving narratives of personal and collective self-discovery. The programme’s thematic thread examines the interplay between individual autonomy and societal constraints through stories of belonging, resistance, and reinvention. These themes come to life through characters and communities who navigate adversity with resilience, confronting challenges that test their sense of self and place in the world.
These explorations often unfold against the backdrop of profound challenges. Several films highlight the courage required to confront societal constraints, whether through activism, rebellion, or quiet defiance. Narratives featuring young women reclaiming autonomy within patriarchal systems underscore the universal relevance of such struggles, while stories of migration and displacement invite reflection on cultural (German) identity and the complexities of home.
Humour and satire also play a significant role in exploring belonging. Some films take a playful approach to challenging societal norms, using absurdity to reflect on bureaucratic and cultural collisions. These lighter moments complement the more serious narratives, adding depth and variety to the programme’s exploration of identity’s fluidity. The selection also aims to bridge past and present, juxtaposing restored classics with contemporary works to show how questions of identity persist through time.
Together, the films in this year’s FOKUS: Films from Germany programme offer a rich tapestry of narratives that examine how individuals and communities shape their identities, resist conformity, and seek transformation—whether through humour, resilience, art, or love.