Mainz in film fever: How the city revives its cinema culture!

Mainz in film fever: How the city revives its cinema culture!

Mainz, Deutschland - The Mainz film scene is facing an exciting change! Once a flowering center of film culture, where 14 cinemas were pulsating in the 1950s, the city now has the chance to rediscover its creative streak. The past few years have been shaped by changes: closings, reopening and the establishment of new cinema series. But now hope blooms! Producers, festival organizers and film scientists are passionate about the future of film culture in Mainz.

film studies and creative minds

The Johannes Gutenberg University has been offering a subject of film science since 1993 that gives students the opportunity to critically watch and understand films. "Film is a sensual, aesthetic, social and political experience," explains Professor Alexandra Schneider. At the same time, the Mainz University of Applied Sciences promotes creative talents in the design and production of films. The local film scene is full of innovative ideas, but there is a lack of support and structures. Film producer Tii von Tiedemann demands more exchange and support for the creative to keep the talents in Mainz.

An important step for the film scene was the introduction of media funding in Rhineland-Palatinate, which was launched in 2021. Nadine Gehm from the Film- und Medienforum RLP emphasizes the importance of this financial support for the implementation of creative projects. "There is no growth without funding," she explains. Media promotion offers producers the opportunity to apply for different programs and support them financially from the development to the evaluation of their projects.

The reopening of the Capitol cinema has brought fresh wind to the cinema landscape. Under a new management, the team would like to present a wide program that includes both international film art and arthouse films. "Cinemy is also communication!" Says Reinhard Wolf, head of the Cinémayence, who wants to create a place of encounter. Festivals such as the Filmz Festival, which takes place from November 7th to 17th, also offer a platform for young films and promote local film culture. The Mainz film scene has many faces, and the interest of the public shows that the demand for diversity is still great!