Filmkultur am Niederrhein e.V.
Lieber ein guter Nachbar als ein ferner Freund
Beter een goede buur dan een verre vriend
Festival Awards 2024
Winner Dutch Competition
Paul en Paul
Hugo Drechsler
Netherlands (2023)
28:44 min.
Jury statement
This award goes to a film that masterfully blends intimacy, humor, and emotional depth into a powerful narrative. The film thoughtfully explores intergenerational trauma and the enduring effects of family history. The jury was deeply moved by the film’s remarkable closeness to its characters and the openness of the protagonists, which give the story an authenticity and intimacy that are rarely seen on screen. The cinematography further enhances the atmosphere, creating a striking and immersive visual experience.
The film stands out for its ability to confront difficult themes while remaining accessible, relatable, and surprisingly uplifting. It is a rare achievement in cinema, and we congratulate the filmmaker for creating such a distinctive and captivating work.
Winner German Competition
Tremolo
Leonard Julius Mink
Germany (2024)
20:49 min.
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Jury statement
The winning film of this year’s German Competition offers a sensitive exploration of the emotional complexities in a relationship, particularly the difficulties in communication and the challenges of navigating each other’s worlds. The jury was especially impressed by the film’s nuanced handling of the subject matter and its authentic portrayal of the characters. A standout feature is its exploration of music, which adds an additional layer of depth to the characters’ journey toward mutual understanding. Through its focus on communication, reconciliation, and the universal human desire for connection, the film is a deserving winner of this award.
Winner Audience Award
Tremolo
Leonard Julius Mink
Germany (2024)
20:49 min.
Special mention Dutch Competition
Dog Bridge
Jorn Leeuwerink
Netherlands (2024)
2:51 min.​
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Jury statement
An Honourable Mention goes to a short animated film that cleverly combines the playful aesthetic of children's animation with profound and timely themes. Set against the backdrop of animals competing for natural resources, the film turns a seemingly simple conflict into a thoughtful and engaging narrative, filled with unexpected humor and insight.
Special mention German Competition
The Fortune Cookie
Pascal Rosengardt
Germany (2024)
6:15 min.
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Jury statement
The special mention in this category goes to a delightful and absurd tale of a couple whose attempt to rob a pet store takes an unexpected turn. With sharp wit and a playful narrative, the film keeps the audience engaged while skillfully subverting expectations. The jury commends the filmmaker for their inventive storytelling, injecting fresh energy and charm into the competition. The film stands out for its originality and humor, earning it this well-deserved recognition.
Special mention Student Competition
Dormant
Niels Bourgonje
Netherlands (2024)
08:51 min.
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