Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, born in 1973 in Cologne, Germany, is a German director and screenwriter. After majoring in literature, politics, philosophy, economics and film directing at the Saint Petersburg University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, University of Oxford and University of Television and Film Munich successively, he chose filmmaking. And he stood out with his debut film The Lives of Others at the age of 33. The screenplay, with four years of efforts, is a masterpiece of varied plotting, elegant narrative and meticulous dramatic structure, winning the 79th Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and other major international awards.

　　

　　Filming site of The Lives of Others

Later, he earned a global gross box office of USD 278 million for his second feature film The Tourist, which was nominated for Golden Globes for Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Actress.

　　

　　Filming site of The Tourist

Donnersmarck made his comeback with the exquisitely produced Never Look Away in 2018. The film examines the broad historical context from nobodies’ perspectives, and focuses the callous camera on individuals’ ups and downs in the changing society. The film had its premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, and was shortlisted for the Competition section of the 75th Venice International Film Festival as well as 91st Academy Awards for Best Cinematography and Best Foreign Language Film.

　　

　　Filming site of Never Look Away

This year marks his return to the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) after being appointed the Jury President of the Competition Section, Tiantan Award, at the 6th BJIFF. With the theme of “Distance from Inspiration to Films”, Donnersmarck will share all details about production of a film, and fully present true screenplay writing and filming.

　　Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck Workshop & Masterclass

　　Theme: Distance from Inspiration to Films