Star Interview: Christian Werner
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Culture
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Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria
CHRISTIAN WERNER “I HAD TO MAKE THE SCREENPLAY MY OWN” Christian Werner works as a director and author who realises films and documentaries that deal with reality in drama as well as the tragicomedy genre. He speaks to Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria about developing his own directing style, his debut project, his love for photography and more. INTERVIEW BY: NANE STEINHOFF
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PHOTOS: STEPHAN BRÜCKLER
DISCOVER GERMANY: How did you become a director and author? Has this always been your dream profession? Christian Werner: “Actually, I was considering studying medicine, but during my time in civil service, which I spent in a hospital, I discovered photography. I was fascinated by the contrasts within the hospital, it really made me think a lot. There were moments when you would pick up a blood sample in the neonatal ward and hear the first "Hello, world" cries of newborns, and then, in the next moment, you would transport a deceased patient to pathology. Experiences like that leave an impression, and through photography, I found a way to process what I had gone through. With my first photography projects, I began studying Visual Communication at the Bauhaus University in Weimar, where I met Günter Reisch (DEFA - former GDR film director), who mentored my first short films. And that’s how it all unfolded up to the present day. For me, it’s the most beautiful profession in the world because with every film, you can step into a new world.”
DISCOVER GERMANY: You’ve travelled a lot as a photographer. What has been your favourite travel destination so far and why? Christian Werner: “Photography always remained a hobby because filmmaking is a very consuming and ‘jealous’ thing that demands full attention and time. My favourite photos as a hobby photographer were taken in São Paulo, Brazil, where, at the age of 21, I worked as an intern at a renowned advertising film production company. I walked a lot through the endless concrete jungle of the sprawling metropolis, capturing street life as I went. The energy of the city and its inhabitants is breathtaking, but it’s also not without its dangers.”
DISCOVER GERMANY: To what extent has the film landscape and your job as a director in Germany changed since the coronavirus pandemic? Christian Werner: “I was fortunate to be able to continue working during the pan-
demic, but it was and still is a significant disruption for many colleagues across all trades. Some even left the industry. I believe the market is currently undergoing a general consolidation. For example, think about the production halts of many fictional projects last year, like those from Sky, or the withdrawal of Paramount+ from the German-speaking market in 2024. However, we are currently witnessing a very exciting phase of change in the entire TV and film landscape. While it’s happening relatively slowly, many interesting formats are emerging, and that presents opportunities for everyone. I’m also convinced that you should always believe in your own films and fight to bring them to life. The film business is often idealistic and associated with high risks. But maybe that’s exactly what makes it so appealing?“
DISCOVER GERMANY: You primarily produce feature and documentary films. Which genre do you like the most? Christian Werner: “I have primarily gained experience as a director. So far, I’ve co-produced a short film that was screened at numerous festivals and won awards. Additionally, I independently financed and produced a documentary film. However, I feel most at home as a director and writer in feature films. I’m particularly drawn to character-driven December 2024
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Issue 12 4
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