Hanna Reifgerst to take over as artistic director of Nordic Film Days Lubeck

Hanna Reifgerst will take over as artistic director of Nordic Film Days Lubeck, from January 1, 2026.

Reifgerst will replace Thomas Haller, who has held the position since 2021 and will depart the role at the end of March.

A selection committee composed of Lubeck culture senator Monika Frank, Nordic Film Days managing director Susanne Kasimir, and Berlinale chief of staff Florian Weghorn selected Reifgerst.

German executive Reifgerst has worked across the film chain for 15 years, from script development through film subsidies and event design, as well as with festivals. She has curated the Nordic Film Days Young Audience strand since 2022, as well as overseeing the ‘film for everyone’ initiative, aiming to increase accessibility in cinemas.

Screen named Reifgerst a Future Leader in May 2024.

“The Nordic Film Days Lübeck are unique in the way the festival combines cinematic quality with issues relevant to society,” said Reifgerst. “I see my task as preserving that curatorial line, while also furthering the festival. As a place of cinematic excellence and public dialogue, the festival should be a space where new voices and perspectives become visible – for diverse audiences across all generations.”

First established in 1956, Nordic Film Days Lubeck is one of the longest-running international film events. It is dedicated to films from Scandinavia and the Baltic region, as well as those from the Schleswig-Holstein region of northern Germany.

Haller will oversee the festival’s 67^th edition, from November 5-9.

“The choice of Thomas Hailer ended up being an enormous asset for Lubeck,” said Frank. “He has advanced the Nordic Film Days Lübeck with great commitment, sure instincts, and a distinct profile.

“With Hanna Reifgerst, the artistic direction will be in the hands of someone who has been a part of the Nordic Film Days for years. She knows the festival, the team, and the audiences and, at the same time, brings fresh impetus for further development.”

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