Innsbruck Nature Film Festival marks 25 years with 66 films

The Innsbruck Nature Film Festival is marking its 25th year with 66 films, around 55 of them competing for a total of 29,000 euros in prize money, ORF reported. This year’s programme focuses on solidarity and respectful treatment of nature.

Festival founder Johannes Kostenzer said its guiding aim was to encourage people to treat the planet with greater care. The same aim shaped the first edition in 2002, he said. At the time, the biologist had encountered new approaches to nature conservation during further training, after the subject had long been presented mainly through warnings and bans.

What began as a regional initiative has since developed into an international film competition. More than 1,000 productions have been screened in Innsbruck cinemas over the festival’s previous editions, said Kostenzer, who works as the regional environmental ombudsman.

This year’s programme includes Patrick and the Whale, which was nominated for an Emmy several years ago, and The Tale of Silyan, currently nominated in two categories. A retrospective will also feature Mautplatz by Christian Berger. The filmmaker, who was once nominated for an Oscar, has supported the festival since its first day. His film was shown at the inaugural edition, and he has presented an award for best cinematography for many years.

The international competition remains the festival’s centrepiece. It attracted around 6,000 visitors last year, while more than 450 films are submitted each year, said managing director Elisabeth Stark. More than 30 volunteers help select entries for consideration. A 20-member expert jury, chaired by film producer Wolfgang Knöpfler, chooses winners in 13 categories.

This year the festival has added emphasis on children and young people. More than 1,000 pupils have registered for the morning programme, a record number, Stark said. Tickets are free for everyone under 15. The programme also includes guided tours, exhibitions and workshops.

The festival’s industry programme has also expanded. More than 100 international film professionals are expected at the two-day Industry Market at the Claudiana, which includes workshops and pitch presentations. The programme is intended to support future projects and partnerships, create contacts for financing and distribution, and strengthen Tyrol’s film and cinema sector.

Innsbruck Tourism chair Peter Paul Mölk highlighted the links between the city and the surrounding natural environment, as well as the role films and stories can play in raising awareness of nature issues.