Sport and cinema are coming together for the first time in Frankfurt: the 1st International Sports Film Festival FFM will take place from 25 to 29 September. Around 50 films will be shown at three venues – Massif E, the former EKINOS and Rooftop Gaia. The spectrum ranges from short reports and documentaries to feature films. A jury will award prizes in five categories, plus three "People Awards".
Opening with Eintracht film
The festival will kick off on 25 September with a special screening: the film "Eintracht Frankfurt – In diesem Jahr" (Eintracht Frankfurt – This Year) documents the Frankfurt footballers' journey to victory in the 2022 European Cup. It is not in competition and, like all other screenings, is free of charge.
The initiators of the festival, Florian Joeckel from Massif Central and mixed martial arts professional Max Coga, want to combine emotions from sport and cinema with the new format. "Sport appeals to many people, as does cinema. Both can be extremely emotional," said Joeckel.
Wide range of sports
The selection of films covers numerous sports – from football, cycling and triathlon to climbing, surfing and martial arts. Several premieres have been announced, such as the documentary about lumberjack Danny Martin from the Rhön region and "Hard Work – The Story of BK West United". A cycling talk with Frankfurt professional John Degenkolb will accompany the screening of the Dutch film "Nieuwe Helden". International productions such as "Foosballers" and "Iron Maiden FC" are also on the programme. Support from the city The patron of the festival is Stephanie Wüst (FDP), head of the city's economic affairs department. She sees the event as a contribution to strengthening the creative location: "The interplay of business, culture and sport is a win for the entire Frankfurt location – it attracts people, enlivens the city centre and increases its attractiveness." Local retailers, restaurants and sports institutions are also participating. Award ceremony and school programme On Sunday, 28 September, the best films will be honoured at Massif E. The jury, which includes ARD commentator Florian Naß, former Olympian Kathrin Klaas and musician Henni Nachtsheim, will award prizes in the categories "Best Sports Film", "Best Actor", "Best Actress", "Social Engagement Award" and "Best Fan Film". Three personalities from the world of sport will receive a "People Award".
On 29 September, there will be a special screening for school classes, during which the winning films will be shown. Visitors will also have another opportunity to see the award-winning entries on Monday. With this festival, the organisers want Frankfurt to set a new cultural benchmark – at the intersection of sports enthusiasm and cinematic art.
