Winds of Change: German History in Cinema

Description

Co-Presented by the Hong Kong Arts Centre and Goethe-Institut Hongkong, Winds of Change – From Cold War to the Peaceful Revolution 1989: Germany’s Long Road to Unity Through Cinema depicts East Germany’s journey from the early years of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) to the Peaceful Revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall with six important films.

When the Berlin Wall fell in November 1989, people were singing and celebrating their newfound freedom in East Germany. The Cold War was over, the GDR’s socialist one-party regime was forced out of power and the way was cleared for Germany’s reunification.

Through the six films, Winds of Change shines light on the courage, perseverance and faith that gave rise to the Germany we know today. These films, most of them by East German directors, have been appreciated for their genuine emotion and excellent craft by German and global audiences alike.

Most films shown at Winds of Change are also accompanied by an introduction and a post-screening talk. Dr. Andreas Kötzing, Lecturer of German History at the University of Leipzig, will also be there on 12 January for a screen chat titled “The Unexpected Fall of the Wall: The Dramatic Events of 89/90,” to explain the reasons that led to the collapse of the GDR and show how this is reflected in the films shown at Winds of Change.