All Festival Films 2025

For 45 days, the sun remains below the horizon during polar nights in Tromsø, Norway. A veil of twilight and darkness settles over the lands north of the Arctic Circle. How do locals spend Mørketid, the darkest time of year? Armed with warm clothing and eager curiosity, Caja Schöpf meets three Norwegian mountain fans—in powder snow, on steep ice, and amidst the waves of the Norwegian Sea: alpinist Aniek Lith, kite surfing world champion Kari Schibevaag, as well as mountain guide and author Espen Nordahl. The film offers emotional glimpses into their lives, captures magical lightscapes, and reveals the peace and beauty inherent in nature’s rhythms.

Climbing was Philipp Hrozek’s greatest passion—until a serious car accident changed his life in an instant. “On a Silk Thread” tells the moving story of his journey back to life: to speech, to movement, and ultimately, to the climbing wall. This new beginning is not only about rebuilding physical abilities, but also about embracing a second chance—one in which Philipp comes to understand the true depth of his family’s love and what life is truly about. It’s a story that inspires courage and reminds us that even in the hardest moments, possibility still exists. And that we should never give up on ourselves.

“Ashima” is an intimate portrait of elite climber Ashima Shiraishi, who travels to South Africa in pursuit of becoming the youngest female athlete ever to conquer a V14 boulder. Accompanying her is Poppo, an eccentric, reclusive, retired avant-garde dancer—her father. What begins as a climbing road trip unfolds into a touching family story and offers a glimpse into the lives of Japanese immigrants in the United States. Ashima is a heartfelt tribute to climbing that resonates deeply—not just for its athletic dimensions, but for the thoughtful portrayal of its characters and the nuanced, multi-layered bond between father and daughter.

On 20 September 2023, Jakob Schubert makes climbing history with the first ascent of B.I.G. (9c)—formerly known as Project Big—in Norway’s renowned Flatanger climbing area. The route, discovered a decade earlier by world-class Czech climber Adam Ondra, is considered one of the most difficult in the world. In 2022, Schubert and Ondra team up to tackle the challenge together. A year later, Jakob returns with a new strategy—and a film crew that streams his attempts live online. The added visibility intensifies the pressure. “B.I.G. – A World First” captures not only the extraordinary physical demands of elite climbing, but also the immense mental resilience required of today’s top athletes.

Enormous silhouettes spiral weightlessly on mountain updrafts, rising high before releasing their prey from dizzying altitudes. Are they murdering innocent lambs—or even small children? Chilling legends once fuelled fear and led to the near extinction of the bearded vulture, a bird that is, in truth, completely harmless. One of the most fascinating creatures of the Alpine region, the bearded vulture feeds exclusively on bones, which it crushes in spectacular fashion. Its courtship and defence flights are nothing short of breathtaking. “Bearded Vultures – The Bone Eaters Are Coming” presents never-before-seen footage of this extraordinary species and documents its remarkable return to the Bavarian mountains.

Alix von Melle and Luis Stitzinger shared 25 years together—both in life and on the mountain. Together, they summited six eight-thousanders. But when Luis tragically loses his life in a climbing accident on Kangchenjunga in May 2023, Alix’s world is upended. Her brother Philipp offers steadfast support, as does Austrian elite alpinist Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner, who unexpectedly invites Alix to join her on a climb—even though they hardly know each other. The film follows Alix on what is probably her most challenging journey: finding her way back to life without her partner. “Mountains, Love, Death” will be screened as part of the 50th anniversary of the Bergauf-Bergab TV series. Alix von Melle will be in attendance.

French kayaker Nouria Newman, along with two childhood friends, takes on one of the most formidable whitewater stretches in the world: the Rondu Gorge of the Indus River in Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains. The film documents the first full descent of this river section by a woman, offering a striking glimpse into the realm of extreme kayaking. It skilfully explores the anatomy of a sport where even the slightest error can have fatal consequences—portraying kayaking as an art form that demands extraordinary precision and bravery, and kayakers as artists who boldly confront the power of nature.

“Besa”—a deep-rooted tradition of hospitality—is embedded in the Albanian mountain law known as the “kanun”. On a trekking tour around Lake Koman and the Drin River in northern Albania, Tine, Katharina, and Nicole explore this spirit firsthand. They follow an adventurous trail mapped out by South Tyrolean mountain guide Martin Plankensteiner, who developed the trail with help from local communities. Along the way, they bivouac beneath starry skies and push themselves to their limits. In Dukagjin, the three women from Munich encounter the region’s ancient culture up close. One particularly memorable host is Marjana Koçeku, a 24-year-old who grew up in Albania’s rugged mountains. Today, she runs a guesthouse and pursues her own vision of tourism done right.

On July 3, 1953, Hermann Buhl of Innsbruck accomplishes one of the most remarkable feats in the history of alpinism. In a gruelling 41-hour ascent, he becomes the first person to solo-climb an eight-thousander without bottled oxygen: the 8,125 m Nanga Parbat. The physical and mental demands of this climb are almost unimaginable, making his summit victory a milestone of endurance and determination. Just five years later, Buhl tragically dies at a still young age during an expedition on Chogolisa (7,668 m) in the Karakoram Mountains—his untimely death cementing his legendary status. Climbing icon Alexander Huber and Buhl’s eldest daughter, Kriemhild, guide viewers through this portrait of an exceptional mountaineer. While the film highlights Buhl’s climbing achievements, it also offers insight into the circumstances that shaped him as a person.

Cerro Mercedario rises to 6,770 meters—it is a wild, solitary peak in Argentina’s central Andes. This extremely remote and hard-to-reach summit marks the fourth-highest point on the American continent. Italian mountain bikers and adventurers Andreas Tonelli and Giovanni Mattiello discard all fear as they set out to attempt the first mountain bike descent from its peak. Their 10-day expedition pushes them to their physical limits while revealing one of the most breathtaking and untamed regions of the Andes. Tragically, Andreas Tonelli lost his life in the Dolomites on 15 July 2025. This final film preserves the memory of a charismatic and deeply passionate mountain man.

In the remote mountain villages of Bamyan, Afghanistan, young people from different communities discover a shared passion for skiing. Driven by this enthusiasm, dedicated coach Alishah Farhang organizes a ski race where boys and girls compete on homemade wooden skis, using rudimentary equipment. The event becomes a celebration of unity, joy, and athletic ambition. But following the Taliban’s takeover in 2022 and the collapse of their homeland, many of these young skiers become refugees and scatter across the globe. “Champions of the Golden Valley” is a moving story of sporting rivalry, universal hope, and what it means to be a true champion.

The film follows exceptional athletes Markus Eder (skiing) and Victor de Le Rue (snowboarding) as they return to the iconic spine walls of Haines, Alaska—the legendary birthplace of extreme freeride cinema. Inspired by the pioneers who came before them and strengthened by their close friendship, Eder and de Le Rue challenge each other to redefine the boundaries of freeriding. They tackle world-famous lines, blaze new ones, and embark on a multi-day expedition to the base of a mountain face that has never been ridden. What begins as a daring athletic pursuit soon spirals into obsession—and culminates in a descent into madness.

Climbing journalist Matt Groom journeys into war-torn Ukraine to uncover an extraordinary community bound by their passion for climbing and their deep love for their homeland. Despite destruction and a constant state of emergency, these climbers have carved out spaces of hope and solidarity. The film shows that although the war has changed everything—daily life, nature and sport—the spirit of the climbing community still endures. “Climbing Never Die” will be featured during the Bayern2 Night. This powerful and moving film was initiated by European and world speed climbing champion Danyil Boldyrev from Ukraine, who is expected to attend as a guest.

In the quiet village of Cumbira Segundo in central Angola, brothers Francisco (10) and Mateo (14) set out to climb Cunduvile, the region’s highest peak. Their mission carries deep meaning for the local community: not only do they hope to become the first children from their village to scale a six-pitch route, but they also dream of planting the Angolan flag at the summit. What begins as a youthful ambition transforms into a powerful symbol of hope. This unexpected adventure interrupts the quiet rhythm of daily life in Cumbira—offering the possibility of lasting change and a new chapter in the region’s story.

The Mangfall Mountains, not far from the city limits of metropolitan Munich, have been shaped by human hands for over 3,000 years—yet they remain a sanctuary of natural wonder. Or perhaps precisely because of that? Today, extensively cultivated mountain regions often serve as vital refuges for endangered animal and plant species. Grouse still perform their courtship dances in sparse mountain forests, while centuries-old wet meadows offer a substitute for drained lowland moors. Regular grazing and mowing of alpine pastures creates habitats for plants and insects that have vanished elsewhere. A year in the life of the rare geranium argus butterfly vividly illustrates that sustainable land management is essential—not only for preserving cultural landscapes, but also for nurturing a new kind of wilderness.

Few have captured the peril of a steep wall descent as powerfully as Gerhard Baur did in his 1988 short film “The Decision”. In it, seasoned alpinist Franz Seeberger ascends the east pillar of Piz Palü in the Bernina Range of the Alps—solo, skis strapped to his backpack. He pauses occasionally to survey the treacherous hanging glacier that flanks the pillar. His goal: to make the first ski descent on the east face all the way from the summit. The risk is immense, and Seeberger must make a critical choice. “The Decision” will be screened out of the festival competition as part of the 50th anniversary of the TV series “Bergauf-Bergab”.

A climber at the piano: When Alexander Huber isn’t tackling spectacular routes, he turns to his other great passion—music. He’s especially drawn to the so-called “Concerto Tirol” by American composer Philip Glass, and dreams of rehearsing and performing the piece live with a string quintet. Supporting him is Burkard Maria Weber, a cellist who aligns his musical devotion with a deep fascination for the mountains. The film captures how these seemingly contrasting worlds—mountaineering and classical music—come together in harmony. “High Art” will be screened as part of the 50th anniversary of the “Bergauf-Bergab” TV series, with Alexander Huber in attendance.

Hunting is both a passion and a family tradition for Silvana Stecher from the Swiss canton of Grisons. Each autumn, the 32-year-old mother of a five-year-old daughter spends days above the tree line, enduring considerable physical strain. As there is no hunting lodge, she sleeps outdoors, carrying everything she needs—food, a sleeping bag, and her rifle. Her motivation stems from a deep fascination with wildlife and the hope of shooting a chamois. While her father has given up his hunting license, her young daughter is already showing interest. It’s entirely possible that she will one day carry on the family legacy.

Climbing fragile icicles, scaling alpine walls, sleeping in portaledges, and mastering big wall techniques—these are just some of the challenges on the agenda of the German Alpine Club’s expedition squad. For 25 years, this program has trained young alpinists to uphold and advance classic mountaineering. Among them is 22-year-old Luis Funk, who is transitioning from competitive climbing to the world of alpinism. The film follows Luis and his fellow climbers over the course of a year, from frozen waterfalls in South Tyrol to granite walls in Ticino and icy north faces in the Western Alps. At the heart of this school for extreme mountaineers dwells the expectation that they will assess risks accurately and take full personal responsibility—in short, everything that defines a well-rounded alpinist.

The new feature film from the creators of “Streif – One Hell of a Ride” is set to celebrate its German premiere in Tegernsee. Over the course of a year, through summer and winter, the film crew followed world-class athletes Marco Odermatt, Cyprien Sarrazin, Dominik Paris, Vincent Kriechmayr, and Justin Murisier—capturing their training, preparation, and competitions. Usually, these elite skiers are approachable, relaxed, and grounded. But as Aleksander Aamodt Kilde puts it, “In the start house of Bormio, Wengen, or Kitzbühel—we become warriors.” Racing down steep, icy terrain at 140 km/h demands extraordinary skill, peak physical condition, and mental fortitude. The film’s climax unfolds at the 48th World Ski Championships in 2025 in Saalbach-Hinterglemm. Since festival director Tom Dauer wrote and directed the film, it will be screened outside of the competition.

The film showcases the lakes of the Alps and of the northern Alpine foothills, plunging into their mysterious underwater worlds: Lake Frillensee, Germany’s coldest bathing lake in eastern Upper Bavaria; the 190-metre-deep Lake Walchensee, with its dramatic steep walls and a bottom that holds both treasures and car wrecks; and vast Lake Constance, with its unfathomable depths. Using modern underwater cameras and a new type of underwater drone, director Jan Haft and his team of diving cameramen unveil never-before-seen images from the depths of these local lakes. Aquatic animal life, hidden for millennia, and the occasional sunken relic of human civilization are revealed for the very first time.

Contemporary art, set against the breathtaking mountain landscape of the Dolomites—who does something like that, and why? For Michael Moling, the SMACH art project is a heartfelt tribute to his homeland. Every two years, he and his team install sculptures by contemporary artists throughout South Tyrol’s Val Badia—in forests, on alpine meadows, and in high-altitude terrain. These works are only accessible on foot, drawing nature-loving art enthusiasts to the region. But not everyone is on board. Many locals struggle to connect with modern art, viewing SMACH as unnecessary at best, and at worst, a violation of the natural landscape. The project is also beginning to strain under its own logistical demands. “Elevated Art” follows Michael Moling over several months—from the spark of an idea to its full realization. A film about an exhibition that is anything but barrier-free.

Stefano Ragazzo wasn’t born in the mountains. His passion for climbing struck like a bolt from the blue, pulling him from the Italian plains to some of the most spectacular mountain regions on Earth. Inspired by the rich tradition of climbing in the Dolomites, Stefano is especially drawn to solo ascents—they offer him a chance to test his limits. In search of a new challenge, the mountain guide sets off for the Karakoram Mountains, where the Nameless Tower—a striking granite spire—rises dramatically into the sky. Its summit is reached via the legendary Eternal Flame route, first climbed in 1990 by Kurt Albert and Wolfgang Güllich. Over days and weeks, Stefano battles harsh weather, icy cracks, and dizzying heights to achieve his goal: the first solo ascent, and a place in the history of adventure mountaineering.

Chris Rubens spent years living his dream as a professional freerider—heliskiing, traveling, and filming across the globe with large crews and piles of gear. But an expedition to Greenland with a climate researcher opens his eyes. No longer content to just talk about climate action, Chris decided to live it. He began reducing his carbon footprint, gave up flying, changed his diet, and became an organic farmer in Revelstoke, British Columbia. It’s a choice that deepened his connection to both nature and his community. As a father, Chris is driven by the desire to leave a better world for his son, Huxley. “Farming Turns” captures the radical transformation of a man—it is an honest and uncompromising film, yet never dogmatic.

Accompanied by his loyal dog Laki, Italian bestselling author Paolo Cognetti (“The Eight Mountains”) sets out on a deeply personal journey into the mountains of his youth—where the paths, people, and animals surrounding Monte Rosa helped shape his life. From his remote hut in the Aosta Valley, he traces the flow of water up to the melting glaciers and hikes through an alpine landscape in transition. “Fiore Mio” is a quiet invitation to observe and reflect: nature is changing but not vanishing. Where something fades, something new begins. Through powerful images and open-minded encounters with those who call the mountain world home, the film tells of the mountains and how they shape life.

In November 2024, Austrian extreme climber Babsi Zangerl and her partner Jacopo Larcher set out to free climb the legendary Free Rider route (7c+) on El Capitan. Over three intense days, they battle their way across slick slabs, through punishing off-width cracks, and over complex bouldering sections. In a groundbreaking moment, Babsi becomes the first person ever to flash a route on El Capitan—climbing it free and on her very first attempt. Jacopo, her rope and life partner, falls just short. But the real story lies beyond success or failure. “Flashed” is a powerful portrait of love, partnership, and personality—capturing far more than a climbing milestone. The film will be featured as part of the Bayern2 Night.

In the male-dominated world of climbing, Emily Harrington sets her sights on a bold challenge: to free climb a route on El Capitan in California’s Yosemite Valley—within just 24 hours. Though she looks back on a remarkable, diverse career that spans elite competitions and a successful ascent of Mount Everest, this climb is different. Fuelled by personal ambition, facing societal expectations, and driven by the wish to live life to the fullest, Emily finds herself at a crossroads where everything is on the line. Girl Climber is a gripping blend of survival drama and intimate character study—a story of courage, self-determination, and the relentless pursuit not just of records, but of redefined limits.

Karishma, co-founder of the Gilgit-Baltistan Girls Football League in northern Pakistan, boldly advocates for girls’ rights in a deeply patriarchal society. As Wakhi women—an ethnic group with Persian roots—she and her sister have found a path to freedom through football. But their journey is met with fierce resistance. Harassed from a young age, the sisters now face online attacks on their fight for equality. Karishma’s greatest supporter is her wise and loving grandmother. Amid towering mountain peaks, a football tournament held under tight security brings rival teams together—united by the shared vision of a more just and inclusive world.

Max Kroneck, Joi Hoffmann, Silvia Moser, and Loïc Isliker set off on a unique freeride adventure—traversing Eastern Europe on skis and public transport. Their quest is twofold: to carve untouched descents and to connect with local freeriders, who guide them through their mountains. The journey leads them through unfamiliar landscapes, far from the bustle of traditional ski resorts. Along the way, they navigate cultural quirks, break through language barriers, and cope with unpredictable weather. What they discover goes beyond powder and peaks—it’s a tapestry of stories, human connection, and a sense of intimacy found far from home. “Going East” is a film that celebrates the art of slowing down—and thereby a style of travel that defies the frantic inertia of modern life.

Gold may be one of the world’s most precious metals, but for freeriders, it’s the fleeting glow of dawn and dusk that holds true value. In his experimental short film “Gold”, filmmaker Paul Schweller plays with the enchantment of those golden hours in a surreal alpine landscape. Through thermographic imagery and intricately composed soundscapes, he explores the tension between heat and cold, light and shadow—making the intangible feel almost touchable. The result is a poetic ski film that utilizes the mountains as a stage for mood, movement, and artistic introspection. “Gold” offers a different, sensually distilled view of alpinism.

Heidi, a spirited orphan girl, lives with her grandfather in a remote wooden hut nestled in the Swiss Alps. Alongside her loyal friend Peter and a lively herd of goats, she enjoys a carefree life. But her peaceful world is upended when her aunt Dete whisks her away to Frankfurt. There, Heidi is meant to be a companion to wheelchair-bound Klara, and to begin her formal education. Though Heidi quickly bonds with Klara and discovers a growing love for books, her heart remains tethered to the mountains and the warmth of her grandfather’s embrace.

High in the Austrian Dachstein Mountains, nearly 2,000 metres above sea level, lies a secluded alpine plateau where traditional pasture farming endures through the summer months. Here, shepherds live and work, traversing rugged terrain daily to guide their cattle. Their craft demands experience, keen observation, and a finely tuned ear—skills known locally as suach’n (searching) and losen (listening). In “Shepherd’s Life – Suach’n und Losen im Dachsteingebirge”, director Bernhard Wohlfahrter accompanies the often quiet but intense everyday life of these people, revealing a world where nature and shared responsibility are deeply intertwined.

Mount Everest attracts a wide spectrum of people each year—mountaineers, adventurers, dreamers, egoists, and trophy hunters. This film explores the intense and often troubling intersection of elite athletic achievement, commercial exploitation, and human hubris. While it offers breathtaking footage from the highest point on Earth, it also exposes the darker realities of mass tourism: overcrowded routes, tons of abandoned waste, lack of consideration and the perilous toll on Sherpas and climbers alike. The result is a multi-layered portrait of a mountain that has come to symbolize both the enduring allure of the summit and the excesses of ambition and greed. Director Frank Senn won the Audience Award in 2009 for “Sherpas – The True Heroes on Everest” and again in 2023 for “Death Trap Haute Route – Reconstruction of a Drama”.

The Huber boys—Thomas and Alexander Huber—are world-renowned mountaineers and climbers based in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. Their father, Thomas Huber senior, shares their deep passion for the mountains without missing a beat. Now 85, he keeps going with remarkable vitality and joy. To mark his birthday, he and his son Alex embark on a special tour through the Watzmann massif. In his documentary, Georg Bayerle follows this emotional father-son adventure, offering a tender portrait of a family whose life is inseparably bound to the majesty and trials of the alpine world.

Freerider Bernhard Braun takes viewers on a humorous journey through the Austrian Alps, all the way up to Mount Albonakopf. Along the way, he wrestles not only with English pronunciation but also with the pressures of the modern ski film industry. What truly makes a good story? Isn’t it enough to simply watch beautiful skiing? As he chases the perfect powder slope, Bernhard comes to a deeper realization: skiing isn’t just about action—it’s about attitude, etiquette, and life itself. In the end, he grasps a simple truth: you can't win without losing. “Hungry Gravity” is Bernhard’s deeply personal career reflection—profound, honest and filled with breathtaking footage from the Tyrolean and Vorarlberg Alps.

In his documentary, Tölz-based photographer and cameraman Rasmus Kaessmann quietly captures the everyday life of a shepherdess in the Swiss Alps. At its heart is Kathrin Riesch, a 40-year-old yoga teacher and Ayurveda consultant who has spent every summer on alpine pastures for more than a decade. Amid towering peaks, a near-meditative rhythm of life unfolds—far removed from deadlines and digital noise. Kaessmann’s warm, poetic visuals highlight the serenity and authenticity of this existence. His film gently invites viewers to pause and reflect on what truly matters: being, nature, and the bonds that connect us.

“Sound of the Deep” follows a team of young cave explorers on an expedition into a previously uncharted cave system in Austria’s Dead Mountains. After months of meticulous preparation, the equipment, ropes, food, and bivouac supplies are flown by helicopter to the cave’s remote entrance. The mission: to descend roughly 600 meters into a newly discovered cave branch. But during the three-day research tour, a sudden flash flood triggered by a storm throws the team into crisis. The perilous ascent back to the surface—through surging streams and cascading waterfalls—becomes a gruelling test of both physical and mental endurance.

Beneath the towering Pointe Percée, in the Prealps of southeastern France, Iris Pessey prepares for a unique challenge: to set a speed record on the mountain she’s cherished since childhood. Amid intense training and moments of self-doubt, she draws strength from her roots, her memories, and an unwavering determination. Narrated by her twin brother with warmth and wit, the film offers an intimate portrait of a remarkable woman caught between external expectations and her deep connection to a little-known peak. Her journey becomes a reflection on the pursuit of freedom—and what it truly means to reach the summit.

After years of demanding big wall expeditions, Canadian climber Bronwyn Hodgins finds herself teetering on the edge of burnout. Seeking a fresh spark, the 32-year-old shifts her focus to sport climbing—hoping for a reprieve from the mental toll. With the opposite result. The film centers on her intense preparation for the La Rubia route (8c+) in southern Spain, a climb that pushes her skills and psyche to the limit. Shot with sensitivity by her friend Julia Cassou, the documentary captures Bronwyn’s struggle to balance ambition, self-doubt, and the risk of burning out yet again. It’s a story of obsession and resilience, of confronting inner demons—and of the strength found in true friendship.

Deception, illness, separation, and doubt. In the unforgiving snowscapes of the Himalayas—where freezing cold, the endless void, and the ever-present shadow of death reign—Charles Dubouloz and Symon Welfringer confront not only the high mountains, but the depths of their own selves. Their first expedition to an eight-thousander, Manaslu (8,163 m), shatters illusions and dims the allure of high-altitude glory. Conversely, at remote Gyachung Kang (7,952 m), the French climbers seek not recognition, but a return to the essence of their passion. Temporarily divided by illness but bound by friendship, they discover beauty in the unexpected. “Le Cavalier Sans Tête” is a film about courage and collapse, tenderness and truth—and the enduring values of authentic alpinism.

Every climbing area holds special meaning for its locals. The sandstone boulders in the heart of the Fontainebleau forest were once director Laurent Chevallier’s childhood adventure playground. Through summer heat and winter chill, in sunshine and rain, his family returned time and again to “Bleau,” driven by the simple wisdom of his father: “Fresh air is good for you.” Decades later, Chevallier revisits this landscape of memories, encountering others who share his love of sandstone. From climbers to explorers of prehistoric rock art, from the surface to the subterranean, their stories weave together into a rich, multi-layered portrait of a place unlike any other.

Four friends from Savoy embark on an extraordinary adventure: 50 days in complete isolation around Denali (6,190 m), the highest peak in North America. Their journey unfolds as a cinematic diary: trekking to the mountain’s base, climbing to the summit, navigating a demanding ski descent, and returning via packraft. In the solitude of wilderness, time and orientation begin to blur. Friendships deepen – and are also put to the test. Confronted by loneliness and the raw power of nature, “Les Jours Sauvages” becomes a celebration of freedom and exploration. It is an intimate reflection on living by nature’s rhythm—raw, honest, and profoundly moving.

The Dolomites are more than a majestic mountain range—they are a resonant soundscape and a cultural echo chamber. This film takes viewers on a musical journey through South Tyrol, Trentino, and Belluno, where the mountains sing in three languages: Ladin, Italian, and German. The songs, rooted in daily life, are carried by shepherds, women who work the farms, and artisans. At the heart of the film are people of all ages devoted to preserving these traditional melodies. The result is a sonic tapestry as rugged and layered as the Dolomites themselves. The “Songs of the Dolomites” weave a narrative rhythm that decelerates us just like mountain life tends to do.

Professor Luca Rossi devotes the final chapter of his academic career to studying wolves. But the deeper he ventures into their world, the more he finds himself caught in a dilemma—torn between scientific detachment and a growing emotional connection. As the wolves return, they ignite a storm of public debate, stirring both awe and anxiety, romantic idealism and existential fear. In seeking closeness to these elusive creatures, Rossi uncovers not only their behaviours but also the complex emotions of the people around them—those who welcome the wolves’ return, and those who dread it. “Lupi Nostri” explores the challenge of forging one’s own perspective amid a cacophony of impassioned voices.

Madison is an athletic young girl with a fierce passion for cycling. But when an unfortunate incident forces her to leave her training camp, she ends up in the Tyrolean mountains—where her mother spends the holidays teaching yoga. It’s not the summer she imagined: unfamiliar terrain, new faces, and mountain bikes instead of sleek road bikes! Yet with her new friends Vicky and Jo, Madison dives into an unforgettable summer adventure. “Madison” is a refreshingly down-to-earth, high-energy film that celebrates the power of friendship and the joy of sport. Perfect for kids and families who love mountain escapades and heartfelt coming-of-age stories.

“Mario Manica – Climbing to Travel” traces the remarkable life of an alpinist from Trentino who has ventured across the globe on bold expeditions since the 1980s. In 2004, a serious accident in Venezuela brought his climbing career to an abrupt end—but not his thirst for discovery. Trading peaks for pedals, Mario turned to cycling as a new way to explore distant lands and connect with people. The documentary follows him through breathtaking landscapes and thus becomes a heartfelt tribute to the power of reinvention, to curiosity and enduring passion for being on the road.

“Merino Trails – A Journey to New Zealand’s Roots” follows two adventurous friends as they explore the untouched landscapes of New Zealand in search of the origins of merino wool used by European base layer brands. Along the way, they encounter farmers—both young and old—who live and work in harmony with their animals and nature. Through these encounters, the duo uncovers the tension between age-old farming traditions and the pressures of a global capitalist market—a paradox that shapes life even in the world’s most remote corners.

After weeks of highs and lows, three climbers reach the pivotal moment of their first ascent in the Garhwal Himalayas. Just below the summit, mere meters stand between triumph and defeat. The three-peaked Meru massif in the Indian Himalaya is home to legendary routes—including the iconic Shark’s Fin, first conquered in 2011. Expedition mountaineers Simon Gietl, Roger Schäli, and Mathieu Maynadier have set their sights on a new line up the southeast face of Meru South (6,660 m). But before they can attempt the crux of their chosen line, they must navigate a series of formidable challenges. In the end, the Goldfish (800 m, M6+, A1) wriggles in their net, proving to be every bit as spectacular as the Shark’s Fin.

Arsène was born in 2000. From the start, his parents sense something unusual—he is noticeably bigger than other newborns. The diagnosis: Sotos syndrome, a rare genetic aberration that causes, among other things, accelerated physical growth. Specialists anticipate that Arsène will have learning potential but be challenged in terms of motor skills and academic demands. For his family, the diagnosis still brings relief—the uncertainty is finally over. And soon, it no longer defines him. To his loved ones, Arsène is simply one of them. The documentary accompanies the siblings on a skiing expedition to the Pyrenees, which becomes a veritable adventure.

9-year-old Bennett, a passionate young mountaineer from Wyoming, embarks on a journey with her grandfather Gary to Trentino in Italy, the home of her ancestors. Having already climbed many high peaks, this time the focus is on more than just mountaineering: Bennett is looking for her roots and an encounter with her still unknown extended family. In the Dolomites, she discovers a centuries-old heritage. In the process, she grows beyond herself—as a climber and as a person. As Bennett reaches new heights, one senses that her journey together with her grandfather will not last forever. But they are still experiencing shared summit joys.

Moussa, a young man from Guinea, finds a new home on the farm of South Tyrolean farmer Rita. What is initially just a place of accommodation gradually becomes a place of encounter, trust and quiet intimacy. Despite their different origins, the two share a common need: the pursuit of belonging and family closeness. Amid everyday farm life, characterized by work, faith and challenges, a special relationship develops. The film sensitively tells of the power of human connection, of the merging of two worlds and the search for a new balance—between origin and arrival, foreignness and home.

Seven long-time friends set off for a relaxing hut weekend in the mountains. But difficulties arise from the start—the lift is broken. Once at the top, the next shock follows: Three strangers have taken up residence in the hut and refuse to leave. What was supposed to be a break from everyday life becomes a war of nerve attrition between claims to ownership, group dynamics and personal conflicts. Old friendships begin to falter, fears for the future become apparent—and when a hunting rifle suddenly appears, the mood deteriorates completely. With black humour this bitter comedy tells of a generation that is looking for solidity where everything is in flux. Because: nothing is fixed. With Maximilian Brückner, Brigitte Hobmeier, Julia Koschitz et al.

Four adventurers embark on a 300-km odyssey through the icy waters of East Greenland to climb the pristine northwest face of the 1,200-metre-high Drøneren. They are not interested in success, but in the essence of adventure itself. With determination, they immerse themselves in a world where curiosity is the only compass. Every step on the frozen ground becomes a journey inwards—a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s place in the world. The visually stunning film is a reminder that the unknown still exists—ready to reveal itself to those brave enough to seek it. In 2023, Alesssandro Beltrame’s “Pionieri” was awarded Best Film in the category Mountain Experience.

“Of a Lifetime” accompanies the legendary De Le Rue snowboarding family, Xavier (7-time world champion), his brother Victor (3-time world champion) and Xavier’s daughter Mila, on their first expedition. Together, they sail across the stormy Drake Passage into the icy wilderness of Antarctica—a place full of danger, but also fascinating beauty. Between penguin colonies, orcas and steep ice slopes, Mila takes on the challenge of big mountain freeriding. Personal diaries give insight into her world of thoughts as she overcomes fears and grows beyond herself. A rousing journey across generations – which culminates in more than just Mila’s 18th birthday.

In 1969, the travel company Intersoc builds a private hotel with 600 beds in Disentis in eastern Switzerland, intended exclusively for Belgian guests. From the outset, the massive structure, which features prominently in the landscape, faces fierce criticism. Locals dub the Hotel Acla da Fontauna the “valley dam,” the “concrete block,” or simply the “Belgian hotel.” But for thousands of Belgians, it’s known affectionately as “onze Acla” (our Acla)—the place where they have spent their holidays across generations. The film tells the story of this hotel, which by now has been deserted for over 20 years. “Onze Acla” brings to life the era of the Belgians in Disentis—a unique chapter in the enduring love story between the Swiss and their Belgian guests.

Otto Guggenbichler, born in Tegernsee, chose to leave behind a secure post-war position as a civil servant to pursue a career at Bayerischer Rundfunk. He became a pioneer—especially in television—producing major documentaries focused on geography, folklore, and whenever possible on the mountains. In tribute to the Tegernsee International Mountain Film Festival’s founder, we present the portrait “Otto Guggenbichler – A Pioneer of Bavarian Television” alongside the film “Das Matterhorn”, which carries the unmistakable imprint of this great connoisseur of human nature.

What is life—its values, its meaning, its wonder, its curses, its struggles, its beauty? “Goodlands” is a carefully composed kaleidoscope of stories: small, striking vignettes that merge into a rich, atmospheric whole. The film is a poetic tribute to Montenegro’s mountains, the people who inhabit them, and their quiet, profound world of thought. At its heart lies the ethos of mountain folk—their principles, dignity, resilience, and deep, almost spiritual bond with their rugged homeland. With quiet strength and visual grace, the film distils the essence of a simple yet profound existence—one that is firmly rooted beneath the stars.

“Reflection” is a visually breathtaking snowboard film set against pristine powder landscapes—but it ventures far beyond adrenaline-fuelled action. The filmmakers follow devoted backcountry riders into remote alpine terrain, where silence and solitude evoke a raw sense of freedom, shadowed by real danger. The film captures the emotional highs and lows of this intense pursuit: the euphoria of carving untouched slopes, and the inner battles of fear, doubt, and hardship beyond the snow. Amid vast wilderness, introspection and camaraderie, a layered portrait unfolds—not just of a sport, but of the deeper forces that drive us.

Throughout her life, Hajar Faramazi—an elder of the Bakhtiari people in Iran’s Zagros Mountains—guided her flock through landscapes of breathtaking beauty. But today, urbanization, patriarchal constraints, and climate change threaten to strip away this freedom. The film follows her on one final, poignant journey. With tender cinematography and a haunting interplay of archival and contemporary footage, director Marjan Khosravi explores the fragile balancing act between tradition and modernity, resistance and adaptation. It’s a visual elegy for a woman whose yearning for freedom becomes a powerful reflection of an entire culture. Khosravi was honoured with the Otto Guggenbichler Young Talent Award in 2022 for “The Dream of a Horse”, and in 2024 received the Bayern2 Audience Award for “Mrs Iran’s Husband”.

While permafrost melts and the “eternal ice” vanishes, tourism is booming. Slope operations, glacier lifts, artificial snow, and drastic interventions in the landscape testify to a race against time. “Requiem in White” is a haunting tribute to the glaciers we’re losing. Through evocative imagery and candid interviews, director Harry Putz lends emotional weight to scientific facts. Filmed across 13 glaciers in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, the film poses a pressing question: How do we face the final farewell from these singular landscapes—and what does that reveal about us? In 2023, Putz’s “Bis zum leeren Tropfen” won Best Film in the category Mountain Nature.

With his iconic first ascents, Kurt Albert introduced the world and its mountains to the Rotpunkt (redpoint) philosophy. In 1991, he forged one such legendary line at Torre Central in Patagonia’s Paine Group, alongside Bernd Arnold, Wolfgang Güllich, Peter Dittrich, and Norbert Bätz. The film “Riders on the Storm” captures the first fully free ascent of this route, achieved in 2024 by Belgian climbers Siebe Vanhee, Sean Villanueva, and Nico Favresse. Over 18 days, the trio battles roaring gale-force winds, sub-zero temperatures, and icy cracks—pushed to their limits time and again. In the process, they gain a profound appreciation for the pioneering spirit of those original ascenders. The film is featured as part of the German Alpine Club Night, celebrating 50 years of the redpoint legacy. Both Siebe Vanhee and Bernd Arnold will be in attendance.

Hiba, who fled Syria, and Sabine from Lebanon pursue their passion for climbing in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, supported by the Swiss non-profit ClimbAid—despite rising tensions between the Syrians and the Lebanese. Both remain close to their traditional families while striving for self-determination. Though faced with setbacks and recurring feelings of powerlessness, the young women deepen their commitment to ClimbAid. Along their path of personal discovery, they grow into true leaders. The film reveals how climbing within a challenging social environment can foster both inner and outer peace.

Samuel Volery is one of the leading personalities in modern slacklining. Over the past 15 years, he has continually expanded the limits of what’s possible—be it on the highline, jumpline, or freestyle. The film traces his remarkable career, from his first world record to technically and mentally demanding projects in Switzerland, including a 540-m highline in the Churfirsten. With exceptional body control and creativity, Volery remains the only slackliner to regularly perform handstands on the highline. The film also reflects the rapid evolution and creative breadth of this very young, very extreme sport.

In the early 1980s, a film crew captures the life of Liz, the last resident of a secluded hamlet in Val di Fassa in the Italian Dolomites. Using a 16 mm camera and a tape recorder, they document a vanishing world—marked by agrarian rhythms, traditional crafts, folk beliefs, and mythology. Forty years later, Liz’s daughter Assunta returns. Following her mother’s passing, she now lives in the family home, where her daily rituals preserve deeply rooted customs and honour her mother’s legacy. Amidst the timeless cultural landscape, she safeguards a way of life and pays daily tribute to her heritage. “Talis Mater” is a gentle, poetic reflection on tradition, memory, and identity—a heartfelt homage to rural existence.

With the rise of climbing gyms and the sport’s inclusion in the Olympic Games, climbing is undergoing rapid transformation—and faces a paradox: its global success indoors contrasts sharply with growing threats to outdoor climbing regions. Under the witty guidance of top climber Cédric Lachat, the film explores how climbing has evolved—from a nature-based outdoor pursuit into a global trend sport. Through striking visuals and a critical lens, it highlights what’s essential to preserve the cultural and ecological legacy of climbing for future generations. In 2019, Guillaume Broust received the Prize for the Best Film in the category Mountain Experience for his film “The Pathan Project”.

“I know for sure that there is no way back for me,” said Wanda Rutkiewicz, one of the greatest female mountaineers in history. In 1992, she disappeared without a trace on 8,586-meter-high Kangchenjunga. Her body was never found. Director Eliza Kubarska sets out on a search for clues in the Himalayas and stumbles upon a mysterious audio diary. Using archive footage and interviews with mountaineering companions such as Reinhold Messner and Carlos Carsolio, the film reconstructs the life of a woman who made alpine history by conquering eight eight-thousanders. Yet questions remain: Is Wanda truly dead—or did she choose a life far removed from the world? A compelling portrait of a remarkable woman who, despite, or perhaps because of her great achievements, was always at odds with herself.

After climbing the most difficult route of his life, James Pearson comes to understand that the recognition he has pursued for the past 15 years can only be found within himself. “The Walk of Life” is a haunting documentary that reveals the often hidden struggles of top athletes and the darker side of competitive sport. It centres on one of the world’s leading trad climbers as he confronts traumatic experiences from his youth. With openness and honesty, the film offers a glimpse into James’s inner world—supported by voices from the British climbing scene—and traces his courageous journey toward greater self-acceptance and inner peace. The film is part of the German Alpine Club Night, marking the 50th anniversary of redpoint climbing.

Our food is losing its value, the soil its fertility, and the climate its balance. In search of the future of agriculture, a designer with farming roots and a trained chef embark on a quest for the future of farming that leads beyond the tilled field. In the film “Tian”—meaning “to do” in South Tyrol—they encounter people who are reimagining agriculture amid living traditions, economic pressures, and the boldness to forge new paths. Their stories reveal a profound connection to the Earth and a deep sense of hope in sustainable transformation. What binds them is a shared belief: that a different kind of agriculture is not only possible, but essential. For “Am Steilhang”, the directors received an Honourable Mention in 2024.

On 1 September 1824, chamois hunters Augustin Biscuolm from Disentis and Placi Curschellas from Trun completed the first ascent of Mount Tödi in eastern Switzerland. The Benedictine priest Placi a Spescha, an early pioneer of alpinism, had identified the promising route, but at 72, the climb to his beloved mountain proved too demanding. From Val Russein, he witnessed the moment of triumph through his telescope. Thirteen years later, Glarus climbers reached the Tödi from their side, marking not only the start of an alpinist exchange of routes and perspectives, but also the beginning of a new chapter in the exploration of the high mountains—defined by courage, curiosity, and a profound connection to the alpine world.

Christoph Betschart, 35, has spent over a decade as a professional “strahler”—a crystal hunter in the high Alps. Every summer, he heads into the mountains around Andermatt, in the heart of Switzerland. Sometimes he goes alone, sometimes with his brother or fellow hobby strahlers, always in search of hidden crystals. From July onward, he’s drawn to the Galenstock, climbing above 3,000 meters in the hope of rare finds. Together with his wife, Christoph runs a small mineral shop in Andermatt. But the search for the mountains’ buried treasures is perilous: three years ago, he lost a close friend who had a fatal fall while strahling. Despite the risks, Christoph’s passion for crystal hunting remains undiminished—fuelled by experience, reverence for nature, and a deep fascination with the secrets the rock holds.

Geamăna was once a thriving village in Romania’s Apuseni Mountains, home to nearly a thousand people. Today, only the church tower rises from the toxic sludge of a nearby copper mine. Almost all houses have vanished beneath the surface, the residents long gone. At the edge of this buried past, Valeria Praţa clings to the present—while confronting an uncertain and ominous future. In haunting visuals, “Where We Used to Sleep” captures the disappearance of a place and the quiet defiance against being forgotten. With striking imagery and a delicate touch, the film tells a story of home, of loss, and of what endures when everything else is pulled beneath the surface.

Do you always have to reach the top to feel summit happiness? With this question in mind, the film follows Philipp Hans on the first ascent, done in redpoint style, of a demanding new route, which scales the majestic north face of Mt Wetterhorn in the Bernese Alps. The journey began with “The Wallride”—a project that combined an Alpine traverse via mountain bike with pioneering climbs. After a failed attempt in 2021, the line was successfully opened in 2022. A year later follows the attempt to free climb it, together with Florian Böbel. The film captures not only athletic achievement, but also Philipp’s realization that some goals may remain out of reach—and that the pursuit itself holds its own reward.

Trail running is freedom: dancing along narrow ridges, powering up steep climbs, and nearly taking flight on the downhill. But what happens when the body suddenly refuses to play along? For David, sport has always been purely about performance—faster, farther, stronger. That mindset is challenged after a transformative experience at the Alpine Trailrun Festival in Innsbruck. No longer chasing podiums, he begins to seek presence over pace, to feel the mountains rather than conquering them. His journey follows the breathtaking Goethe Trail through the Karwendel range. This film explores borderline experiences, the lessons hidden in setbacks, and a renewed perspective on trail running.