Woche der Kritik

The Woche der Kritik is an annual event that takes place in parallel with the Berlinale, one of the most significant film festivals worldwide, in Berlin. It is initiated by the Association of German Film Critics and combines film screenings with in-depth debates on central themes of film culture, politics, and aesthetics[3].

• Film Screenings: The Woche der Kritik presents a carefully curated selection of films, often from current and forward-thinking directors.
• Debates and Panel Discussions: A central component of the event is the accompanying debates and panel discussions, which allow for an intensive engagement with the films shown and the broader contexts of the film and cultural industry[1][3].
• Kick-off Conference: Each edition of the Woche der Kritik begins with a kick-off conference that addresses and discusses important topics and trends in the industry[1].

The Woche der Kritik stands for a lively and differentiated culture of discussion. Its mission is to provide a platform where film critics, directors, and the audience can discuss films and their cultural significance together. A central concern is to avoid polarization and polemics and instead promote a constructive and respectful debate[1].

• Promotion of Film Criticism: In a time when traditional media have fewer resources for expert film criticism, the Woche der Kritik advocates for the preservation and promotion of qualified film criticism[1].
• Societal Discussions: By selecting films that stimulate societal discussions, the Woche der Kritik helps to use films as occasions for broader societal debates[1].
• Innovation and Experimentation: The event supports innovative and experimental film projects, such as the closing night in 2024, which presented the first feature film by Clara Winter and Miiel Ferráez, combining elements of Westerns, road movies, and experimental films[1].

The Woche der Kritik celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024 and has developed into a staple in the Berlin cultural calendar over the years. It not only provides a platform for film screenings but also for in-depth reflections on the current situation of the film and cultural industry. With the participation of renowned film critics and directors, as well as the active involvement of the audience in the debates, the Woche der Kritik makes an important contribution to the cultural and intellectual landscape of Berlin[1][2].

• 1 - https://berliner-filmfestivals.de/2024/02/echte-diskussionen-sind-ansteckend-interview-mit-der-kuenstlerischen-leitung-der-10-ausgabe-der-woche-der-kritik/
• 2 - https://wochederkritik.de/de_DE/
• 3 - https://cinando.com/en/Company/woche_der_kritik_87260/Detail
• 4 - https://wochederkritik.de/en_US/mitmachen/
• 5 - https://filmloewin.de/woche-der-kritik-2021-kunstsprache/