Prominent Filmmaker Daniel Sponsel Appointed President of Munich University for Television and Film
Daniel Sponsel, the acclaimed director of the renowned International Documentary Film Festival DOK.fest, has been appointed as the new President of the University for Television and Film in Munich (HFF Munich). Bavarian Minister of the Arts Markus Blume (CSU) highly praised Sponsel’s expertise and dedication, highlighting his transformative leadership at DOK.fest.
"Under his stewardship, the festival has achieved record-breaking attendance, solidifying its status as an internationally significant platform," Blume stated.
Sponsel will assume his new role full-time on October 1st, succeeding Bettina Reitz. The filmmaker, author, and cinematographer expressed great excitement about his appointment, particularly as he is an alumnus of HFF Munich. He has led DOK.fest since 2009 and will oversee the upcoming edition from May 7th to 25th before his transition to HFF Munich. The festival has yet to announce his successor.
HFF Munich boasts approximately 350 students and offers programs in disciplines such as directing, documentary filmmaking, and production. The institution has nurtured the careers of countless renowned filmmakers since its founding in 1966, including Oscar winners Caroline Link and Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, as well as the late film producer Bernd Eichinger. HFF Munich’s address, Bernd-Eichinger-Platz 1, serves as a testament to his legacy.
Sponsel’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm within the film industry.
"Daniel Sponsel’s appointment as President of HFF Munich is a testament to his unparalleled contributions to filmmaking and his unwavering commitment to supporting emerging talent," said Manfred Schmidt, President of the German Film Academy. "His leadership will undoubtedly inspire future generations of filmmakers."
Sponsel’s vision for HFF Munich focuses on nurturing creativity, fostering innovation, and bridging the gap between academia and industry. He aims to strengthen international partnerships, expand the university’s curriculum, and establish a research hub to drive ground-breaking advancements in film and media.
"I am deeply honored and enthusiastic to lead HFF Munich into a new era," Sponsel said. "As an alumnus of this esteemed institution, I am intimately familiar with its strengths and potential. Together, we will write the next chapter in HFF Munich’s rich history, empowering our students to become transformative voices in the global film landscape."
The appointment of Daniel Sponsel as President of HFF Munich is a significant milestone for the university and the German film industry as a whole. His expertise, passion, and unwavering dedication promise to ignite a new chapter of innovation and achievement, shaping the future of filmmaking in Germany and beyond.
