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.
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.
