German Film Awards Spotlight: The Contenders for the 2025 Lola
Movies in Competition for the Lola Award - Films in Competition for Lola's Award
Gear up for the 75th German Film Awards! After receiving an Oscar nod for Best International Film, "The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree" is now vying for the prestigious Lola. This masterpiece of Iranian director Mohammad Rasulof (52), a refugee in Germany, has landed six nominations, including Best Film and Best Directing, as announced by the German Film Academy on March 17.
Joining "The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree" in the Best Feature Film category are five other captivating titles:
- "In Love, Yours, Hilde," a stirring biographical drama about resistance fighter Hilde Coppi (1909-1943).
- "Islands," a gripping thriller that promises a rollercoaster ride.
- "Vena," a thought-provoking social drama tackling contemporary issues.
- "Cologne 75," chronicling the iconic Keith Jarrett (79) concert in the cathedral city.
- "September 5," an engrossing thriller about the 1972 Munich Olympics attack, which has earned a jaw-dropping ten nominations—more than any other entry.
Double Trouble: Sam Riley's Star-Studded Nominations
Sam Riley (45) has managed to bag two nominations for Best Leading Actor. His captivating performances in "Islands" and "Cranko," in which he portrays ballet star John Cranko (1927-1973), have earned him recognition. The Iranian talent Missagh Zareh is nominated for "The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree." Contending for Best Leading Actress are Liv Lisa Fries (34, "In Love, Yours, Hilde"), Mala Emde (28, "Cologne 75"), and Emma Nova ("Vena").
Double Trouble Strikes Again: Alexander Scheer's Shining Moment
Not one to be outshone, Alexander Scheer (48) is nominated twice in the Best Supporting Actor category, thanks to "In Love, Yours, Hilde" and "Cologne 75." Rounding out the category is Godehard Giese (52, "Sad Jokes"). The Best Supporting Actress contenders are "Fig Tree" actress Niousha Akhshi, Leonie Benesch (33, "September 5"), and Anne Ratte-Polle (51, "Bad Director").
Two Lola awards have already been decided. This year's Honorary Award goes to acclaimed casting director Dorthe Braker (80). "The School of Magical Animals 3" has been named the most successful film. The 75th German Film Awards will be held on May 9 at the Theater am Potsdamer Platz in Berlin.
Don't forget to check out the official website of the German Film Award or reputable German film news sources for the most recent updates on the 2025 nominees!
- In a surprising turn, the European Investment Bank's operations in the field of the environment have received a boost, as the Commission has decided to grant a Community guarantee for its financing, similar to the support given to Oscar-nominated movies like "The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree."
- Adding to the intrigue of the 2025 Lola race, Missagh Zareh, the Iranian talent from "The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree," will be going head-to-head with Oscar-nominee Sam Riley, who has earned two nominations for Best Leading Actor in "Islands" and "Cranko."
- As the 75th German Film Awards approach, various anticipation builds around the Best Supporting Actress category, where "Fig Tree" actress Niousha Akhshi competes against Leonie Benesch from "September 5" and Anne Ratte-Polle from "Bad Director," reminiscent of the resistance displayed by real-life figures like Hilde Coppi portrayed in "In Love, Yours, Hilde."
