Film- und Medienstiftung NRW and lit.COLOGNE Launch New Documentary Film Series DOK.COLOGNE
At today’s lit.COLOGNE program press conference, the Film and Media Foundation NRW and lit.COLOGNE announced the launch of a new joint event: DOK.COLOGNE – Films That Move You.
Prominent figures from the worlds of literature, film, and sports will present documentaries that have shaped, moved, or inspired them—and will then invite the audience to join them for a personal discussion.
The films will be screened over two evenings as part of lit.COLOGNE. The hosts will explain their personal connection to the film and, following the screening, discuss the film’s themes—whether political, social, cultural, or deeply personal—together with guests.
The Opening Night: Caroline Wahl and Benno Fürmann
Caroline Wahl presents her favorite documentary, *
*
Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 7:00 p.m., Cineplex Filmpalast Cologne
Caroline Wahl isn’t just a successful author—she’s a literary phenomenon. Ever since her debut novel, *22 Bahnen*, her name has been a fixture on bestseller lists. The book has become a staple on bookstore shelves; its cover can be seen everywhere people read—on the train, at the outdoor pool, or while scrolling through Instagram.
The sequel, “Windstärke 17,” also shot straight to number one, and by the time “Die Assistentin” was published, Caroline Wahl had cemented her reputation as a rising star in the literary world.
At DOK.COLOGNE, however, she’s not appearing as a writer but as a viewer: she’ll introduce us to her favorite documentary—a film that has personally shaped and accompanied her. Curtain up!
Benno Fürmann presents: “AWARE – Journey into Consciousness”
Saturday, March 21, 2026, 7:00 p.m., Cinenova Cologne
Benno Fürmann has been one of the most distinctive faces of German cinema for many years. Known for productions such as “Nordwand,” “The Warrior and the Empress,” and “Babylon Berlin,” he captivates audiences with his great emotional depth and presence. In addition to his work in front of the camera, he is increasingly dedicating himself to social and spiritual issues.
On this evening, he will present the multi-award-winning documentary “AWARE – Journey into Consciousness,” which follows leading scientists and thinkers as they explore one of the most fascinating topics of our time: What is consciousness—and how can it be experienced, explored, and expanded?
In the subsequent conversation with Gert Scobel, Fürmann delves deeper into the film’s questions—about perception, connectedness, inner experience, and the search for orientation in a complex world. An inspiring exchange full of curiosity and openness.
Why Documentaries? An Invitation to a Change of Perspective
Walid Nakschbandi, Managing Director of the Film and Media Foundation NRW: “Especially in times of disinformation, a fast-paced news cycle, and social tensions, the documentary film plays a special role. It shows real-life worlds, makes the unfamiliar understandable, opens up space for empathy, and delivers well-researched, high-quality journalistic narratives. Documentary films are windows into other worlds—and, at their best, they forge connections to those worlds. DOK.COLOGNE aims to make this power accessible to a broad audience.”
The new event series addresses politically, culturally, and socially relevant topics—ranging from climate, human rights, and historical memory to art, sports, and culture, as well as technology and social change.
A joint new initiative by the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW and lit.COLOGNE
The Film- und Medienstiftung NRW is initiating the series and contributing its content expertise from its work in the film and media sector, while lit.COLOGNE is contributing its excellent dramaturgical and curatorial experience drawn from many years of festival history.
Both partners share the goal of stimulating discourse, broadening perspectives, and highlighting the artistic relevance of documentary film.
More information on venues, films, and panelists will follow shortly.
TICKETS AND FURTHER INFORMATION