Finnish Filmmaker Wins European Wildlife Film Award for "Tale of the Sleeping Giants"
Hamburg, Germany – Finnish filmmaker Marko Röhr emerged victorious at the inaugural European Wildlife Film Awards, claiming the top prize in the Animal World category for his mesmerizing documentary "Tale of the Sleeping Giants." The film, which captures the pristine beauty and captivating wildlife of Lappland, was awarded the prestigious European Wildlife Film Award, a majestic owl sculpture carved from oak wood, along with a monetary prize of €15,000.
Röhr’s captivating work transports viewers to the enchanting realm of Lappland, a land of towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and meandering rivers teeming with diverse wildlife. Through stunning cinematography and evocative storytelling, "Tale of the Sleeping Giants" immerses the audience in the rhythms of nature, showcasing the intricate relationships between species and the fragility of the ecosystem.
German and Irish Films Impress in Other Categories
In the Biodiversity category, German filmmaker Jan Haft triumphed with his film "Our Forests – Courage for Gaps." Haft’s documentary delves into the crucial role of gaps and clearings within forests, highlighting their significance for the survival and diversity of countless plant and animal species.
Christian Heynen’s documentary "Good News from the Planet – How We Protect Moors, Heathlands, and Meadows" captivated the jury in the Conservation category. Heynen’s film shines a light on successful conservation efforts aimed at restoring and preserving vital habitats for wildlife and promoting sustainable land management practices.
Irish director Kathleen Harris won the award for Best Story for her film "Birdsong," a heartwarming tale of a young birdwatcher who embarks on an extraordinary journey to protect the endangered corncrake. The film’s poignant narrative sheds light on the importance of environmental stewardship and the power of individual actions.
Kiel Filmmaker Takes Home Prize for Best Short Film
Sven Bohde, a filmmaker from Kiel, Germany, was recognized for his exceptional work in the Best Short Film category with his film "Pepe Dives." Bohde’s captivating documentary transports the audience to the depths of the ocean, following the adventures of an endearing anglerfish named Pepe.
Inaugural European Wildlife Film Awards Celebrate Nature and Cinema
The European Wildlife Film Awards, established by the German Wildlife Foundation, serve as a platform to showcase exceptional nature films that inspire, educate, and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. A total of 245 films were submitted for the inaugural awards, and the 50 best nature documentaries will be screened for a year at the Nature Film Cinema in the "Embassy of Wildlife" in Hamburg’s Hafencity.
The Audience’s Favorite Award will be presented in early 2026, recognizing the nature film that resonates most with the public.
Katharina Fegebank, Hamburg’s Senator for Science, emphasized the significance of the awards: "The German Wildlife Foundation’s Nature Film Award brings rarely seen glimpses into the world of wildlife to the screen, offering the city a unique nature education experience. Especially in the categories ‘Biodiversity’ and ‘Conservation,’ it becomes clear how important the cinematic examination of climate change is."
