Into Great Silence – Revival for the 20th anniversary
To mark the 20th anniversary of its German theatrical release (November 10, 2005), Philip Gröning's "Into great Silence“ is returning to theaters.
Starting on European Cinema Day (Sunday, November 23, 2025), the film will be shown nationwide as a special screening — with ideal dates during Advent and the holidays until Epiphany (January 6, 2026). Format note: The premiere in 2005 was on 35 mm; the re-release will be evaluated as DCP.
A film that found its time – and finds it again
In 1984, Philip Gröning asked the Carthusian Order for permission to film – the answer was essentially: “It's too early. Maybe in ten or fifteen years.” Sixteen years later, the call came from the Grande Chartreuse: “We are ready.” Two years of preparation, one year of filming, and two years of post-production followed – a total of 21 years from the initial idea to the finished film. The radically calm form – without commentary, without music, without interviews – relies on images, time, and sound: light, seasons, work, and prayer become a tangible experience in the cinema. A cinematic event.
“This anniversary is an invitation to come together in the cinema and find peace. ‘Into Great Silence’ is an experience – and it has its greatest impact on the big screen.” — Stephan Winkler, W-FILM
The silence in the here and now
Twenty years after its theatrical release, “Into Great Silence” seems more relevant than ever. In a present of constant stimuli, there is a growing need for concentration, simplicity, and shared experiences. Keywords such as mindfulness and slow culture shape the discourse—Gröning anticipated them in his film. The re-release is therefore not only an anniversary celebration, but also an invitation to pause and reflect – together in the darkness of the cinema.
AWARDS (selection)
German Film Critics' Award – Best Documentary Film
German Film Award 2006 – Nomination for Best Documentary Film
European Film Award 2006 – Best Documentary Film
Sundance Film Festival 2006 – Special Jury Prize (World Cinema Documentary)
Cinema dates will be available shortly on the W-FILM website or directly from the cinemas.
Production support from the FMS Film- und Medienstiftung NRW, the Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA) and the Filmbüro NW.
