Filmakademie Alumnae Among the Nominees
The nominations for the German Film Critics’ Award 2024 have been announced, and three graduates of the Filmakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg have been honored with nominations for their outstanding films. This year, Chiara Fleischhacker with VENA, Asli Özarslan with ELLBOGEN (ELBOW), and Soleen Yusef with SIEGER SEIN (WINNERS) are competing for the prestigious award, presented annually by the German Film Critics Association to the best German cinema productions of the year.
The Filmakademie graduation film VENA (written and directed by Chiara Fleischhacker*) has been nominated in the categories “Best Debut Feature” and “Best Actress.” ELLBOGEN (directed by Asli Özarslan) is also nominated in these two categories. Additionally, SIEGER SEIN (directed by Soleen Yusef*) is in the running for “Best Children’s Film.”
VENA tells the story of a young woman striving to reclaim her autonomy after a troubled past and an unplanned pregnancy. This powerful and emotional narrative portrays the protagonist’s difficult battle to overcome adversity and reclaim her life.
ELLBOGEN portrays Hazal, a young woman who faces repeated rejection and isolation, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Her journey to assert herself in a society that pushes her away becomes a challenging yet liberating path.
SIEGER SEIN, which premiered at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival, focuses on the life of 11-year-old Mona, who arrives in Berlin-Wedding with her family after fleeing Syria. Mona grapples with the challenges of life as a migrant and her passion for football, facing not only external obstacles but also conflicts within her own team.
The German Film Critics’ Award has been presented for over 60 years by the German Film Critics Association, honoring the best German cinema productions of the year. It is the only German film prize awarded solely by film critics based on artistic criteria, renowned for its objective and creative focus. This year, 23 feature and documentary films, along with other productions such as short and experimental films, have been shortlisted for the award.
The winners will be announced on February 16, 2025, during the Berlinale.