Bern Film Awards Honor Environmental and Social Documentaries

The 2025 Bern Film Awards have celebrated outstanding achievements in Swiss cinema, distributing prizes totaling CHF40,000 across multiple categories. This prestigious event highlighted exceptional works in documentary, feature film, and animation, demonstrating the vibrant diversity of Swiss filmmaking. The awards particularly emphasized productions that tackle environmental and social themes, reflecting contemporary global concerns through a Swiss lens.

Two documentaries received major recognition at this year's awards. 'IDDU – Racconti dell'isola' by director Miriam Ernst, a compelling portrait of life on Stromboli island, secured the top prize of CHF30,000. The jury particularly praised its atmospheric cinematography and evocative musical score. Simon Baumann's 'Wir Erben' (We, The Heirs), which also claimed the Swiss Film Prize, was awarded CHF10,000 for its insightful exploration of inheritance and property justice, told through a personal family narrative.

The feature film category honored 'Les Courageux' by Biel-based filmmaker Jasmin Gordon with a CHF10,000 prize. This compelling narrative follows a single mother challenging societal norms and expectations while striving to maintain her dignity and prove her worth to her three children. The jury commended the film's beautiful atmospheric qualities and its powerful social commentary.

A special prize of CHF10,000 was awarded to animator Etienne Mory, recognizing his outstanding contributions to Swiss animation. His portfolio includes notable works such as 'Bot und TV', 'Matta & Matto', 'Lachsmänner', and 'Coyote'. This special recognition highlights the importance of animation in Swiss cinema and acknowledges Mory's artistic innovation in the field.

The awarded films will be showcased at the upcoming Bernese Film Weekend, scheduled for November 20-23, 2025. This prestigious event will span 13 cinemas across the canton of Bern, offering audiences the opportunity to experience these acclaimed works. The festival serves as a vital platform for celebrating Swiss cinema and connecting filmmakers with their audiences.