There was no trace of cautious anticipation: As soon as the dance floor in the ballroom of the Munich luxury hotel “Bayerischer Hof” was officially opened, there was exuberant dancing. The relief and joy of the more than a thousand guests at the return of the traditional festival was great.
“Finally Filmball again,” said the head of the Bavarian State Chancellery, Florian Herrmann (CSU), during his opening speech at the 48th German Filmball. He stepped in at short notice for Prime Minister Markus Söder (CSU), who was unable to attend.
Herrmann praised the industry with much praise and recognition. It is the works of art by creative people that make it possible to laugh, be amazed and think together. “You don’t depend on us, we depend on you,” said Herrmann before opening the dance floor with his wife.
The stars cavort in the ballroom
Shortly afterwards, a live band created an exuberant atmosphere in the glamorous ballroom with covers of well-known pop songs. Meanwhile, roulette could be played again this year in the neighboring room. As with previous events, the proceeds will be donated to the Künstlernothilfe.
The actresses Veronica Ferres and Uschi Glas as well as the actors Moritz Bleibtreu and Jan Josef Liefers accepted the invitation from the top organization of the film industry (Spio) to the traditional ball. Former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz also strolled along the red carpet.
Spio President Christian Sommer also spoke at the opening about the problems and concerns of the industry. The problem of young talent in the many trades in the industry is huge, said Sommer.
Every reason to celebrate
Uschi Glas was relieved about the return of the film ball. The 79-year-old said she was happy that the “family reunion” was taking place again. During the three-year break, she kept thinking to herself: “I hope it doesn’t fall asleep now and then suddenly there won’t be a film ball anymore.”
Jan Josef Liefers was also happy to be able to party with colleagues again. “I’m also looking forward to the time when all the photographers have to leave the hall and you can open the top button and the real party starts,” joked the 59-year-old.
The winners of the Bavarian Film Prize, which was awarded on Friday evening, had every reason to celebrate. “Girl You Know It’s True” was awarded the best film and thus the main prize. Veronica Ferres received the honorary award from Prime Minister Markus Söder (CSU) for her work as an actress and producer as well as her social commitment. Hannah Herzsprung was honored as best actress for her role in “15 Years”.
