Zurich Film Festival

Der Schweizer Regisseur Rolf Lyssy gehört mit seinem beeindruckenden Œuvre aus Spiel- und Dokumentarfilmen zählt Rolf Lyssy zu den herausragenden Filmemachern der Schweiz. So gehört sein Meisterwerk DIE SCHWEIZERMACHER bis heute zu den erfolgreichsten Schweizer Filmen. Weitere grosse Erfolge feierte er mit Dialektkomödien wie TEDDY BÄR und LEO SONNYBOY. Gleichzeitig widmete er sich gesellschaftlichen Brennthemen, mit DIE LETZTE POINTE etwa dem selbstbestimmten Leben im Alter. In seiner ZFF Masters aus dem Jahr 2020 sprach Lyssy über Hochs und Tiefs seiner Karriere und seinen Spielfilm EDEN FÜR JEDEN.

British actress Claire Foy is one of Europe's most versatile character actresses. Known for her portrayal of young Queen Elizabeth II in the award-winning Netflix production THE CROWN (2016–2023) and works in films like THE SEASON OF THE WITCH (2011), WOMEN TALKING (2022) and ALL OF US STRANGERS (2023), she earned praise by critics world wide. In this ZFF Masters episode, she shares personal stories from her career in the film business and how she became the actress she is today. She also talks about her latest drama, H IS FOR HAWK, which celebrated its international premiere at Zurich Film Festival. The film released in the UK and US on 23 January 2026. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world. The full talks are available on YouTube and as podcast. Cover Photo: Sandro Bäbler #ZFF2025 #zurichfilmfestival

In this ZFF Masters session, Scottish actor James McAvoy reflects on his journey as an actor, his Scottish roots, and what art means to him. He discusses how defining roles in films such as THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA, X-MEN, and ATONEMENT shaped his career and artistic identity, and shares insights into his directorial debut CALIFORNIA SCHEMIN'. Renowned for his remarkable range, James McAvoy is one of the most distinctive performers of his generation. The Scottish-born actor appeared early on in television and film projects including THE NEAR ROOM, REGENERATION, and BAND OF BROTHERS. He achieved international recognition with SHAMELESS (2004–2005), followed by global success as Mr. Tumnus in THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE. His performance in THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND earned him a BAFTA Scotland Award, while ATONEMENT brought BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations. From the psychological intensity of SPLIT to blockbuster roles in the X-MEN franchise, McAvoy continues to demonstrate extraordinary versatility. With CALIFORNIA SCHEMIN', he now steps behind the camera for his directorial debut.

In this ZFF Masters episode, Benedict Cumberbatch reflects on the experiences and creative decisions that shaped his career. He speaks about the lasting impact of iconic roles such as Sherlock and Doctor Strange, and shares insights into his work as a producer and what storytelling beyond acting means to him. Charisma, intelligence, and an unmistakable voice define Benedict Cumberbatch, CBE, as one of the most influential actors of his generation. Rising to international fame with SHERLOCK (2010–2017), he went on to deliver acclaimed performances in films such as ATONEMENT (2007), 12 YEARS A SLAVE (2013), THE IMITATION GAME (2014), and THE POWER OF THE DOG (2021), earning two Academy Award nominations. Alongside his work in auteur cinema, he became a global figure as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and lent his voice to Smaug in THE HOBBIT trilogy. At the 21st Zurich Film Festival, Cumberbatch received the Golden Eye Award for his versatile career, followed by a screening of his new film THE THING WITH FEATHERS. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, open to the public and held during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences a rare opportunity to gain insight into the creative process and artistic vision of leading figures in film. Cover photo: Anne Morgenstern #ZFF2025 #zurichfilmfestival

In this ZFF Masters episode, Amanda Seyfried reflects on the roles and experiences that have shaped her into one of the most beloved and versatile performers of our time. She discusses the impact of iconic films like MAMMA MIA! and MEAN GIRLS and shares behind-the-scenes stories from fan-favourite projects. She also offers insights into her latest film, THE TESTAMENT OF ANN LEE which she presented at the 21st Zurich Film Festival, already marking her as a major contender this awards season. Amanda Seyfried has long been one of the defining faces of contemporary American cinema. After gaining early attention in the TV series AS THE WORLD TURNS and ALL MY CHILDREN, she broke through with the hit comedy MEAN GIRLS (2004), paving the way for major film roles. She went on to star in HBO's BIG LOVE and lead the global phenomenon MAMMA MIA! (2008) and its sequel, showcasing her vocal talent. Her range expanded further through acclaimed performances in JENNIFER'S BODY, CHLOE and LES MISÉRABLES. Seyfried earned her first Academy Award nomination for portraying Marion Davies in David Fincher's MANK (2020). She achieved her biggest television success with her Emmy and Golden Globe winning performance as Elizabeth Holmes in THE DROPOUT (2022). ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, open to the public and held during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences a rare opportunity to gain insight into the creative process and artistic vision of leading figures in film. This episode is presented by Deadline. Cover photo: Anne Morgenstern #ZFF2025 #zurichfilmfestival

In this ZFF Masters episode, actor and producer Dakota Johnson talks to ZFF Co-Owner Max Loong, reflecting on how growing up in a film family shaped her artistic instincts and professional path. She discusses the founding of her production company TeaTime Pictures – a company powered primarily by women – and offers behind-the-scenes insight into the eclectic range of projects she has taken on throughout her career. Dakota Johnson has become one of Hollywood's most compelling talents, known for her distinctive screen presence and increasingly impactful work as a producer. After early roles in films such as THE SOCIAL NETWORK and 21 JUMP STREET, she achieved worldwide recognition with the FIFTY SHADES trilogy, earning a 2016 BAFTA Rising Star nomination. Since then, she has balanced acclaimed indie projects like A BIGGER SPLASH, SUSPIRIA, and THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON with major studio films including BLACK MASS and THE LOST DAUGHTER. In 2019, she co-founded TeaTime Pictures with Ro Donnelly, a company driven largely by women. At the 21st Zurich Film Festival, Johnson opened the festival with her new production, SPLITSVILLE and received the Golden Eye Award. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, open to the public and held during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences a rare opportunity to gain insight into the creative process and artistic vision of leading figures in film. Cover photo: Maurice Haas #ZFF2025 #zurichfilmfestival

In this ZFF Masters session, four-time Oscar-nominated writer and director Noah Baumbach reflects on how real life and personal relationships shape his filmmaking. He discusses his latest comedy JAY KELLY revisits films such as FRANCES HA and THE SQUID AND THE WHALE, and speaks about what collaborating with longtime creative partners like Wes Anderson and Greta Gerwig means to him. Noah Baumbach is one of the most influential voices in contemporary cinema. After his debut KICKING AND SCREAMING, he gained international recognition co-writing THE LIFE AQUATIC WITH STEVE ZISSOU and directing the acclaimed THE SQUID AND THE WHALE. His career spans standout films including FRANCES HA, WHILE WE'RE YOUNG, THE MEYROWITZ STORIES, and MARRIAGE STORY, which earned him multiple Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA nominations. He also co-wrote the global hit BARBIE with Greta Gerwig. At the 21st Zurich Film Festival, Baumbach presented JAY KELLY and received the "A Tribute to …" Award honoring his remarkable career. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world. Cover photo: Sandro Baebler #ZFF2025 #zurichfilmfestival

In this ZFF Masters session, Brazilian actor and director Wagner Moura discusses his latest film THE SECRET AGENT and his collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Kleber Mendonça Filho. Moura reflects on his most iconic roles, including Pablo Escobar in NARCOS, and shares how he brings a piece of Brazil to every job he takes, even in international films. He also offers candid insights into his approach to acting and storytelling across both Brazilian and American cinema.  Wagner Moura is one of South America's most celebrated actors, known for his performances in NARCOS, TROPA DE ELITE, ELYSIUM, PRAIA DO FUTURO, and VIPs. He made his directorial debut with MARIGHELLA (2019) and continues to impress audiences worldwide with roles in THE GRAY MAN, SERGIO, and PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH. At the 21st Zurich Film Festival, Moura presented THE SECRET AGENT and received the Golden Eye Award for his performance.  ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world.   Cover photo: Sabine Liewald

In this ZFF Masters session, Academy Award–winning actor and filmmaker Russell Crowe discusses his latest film NUREMBERG, which opens in US cinemas on November 7. He also reflects on what he loves most about his craft and shares memories from the making of classics such as GLADIATOR and ROBIN HOOD. Crowe offers candid insights into his decades-long career and what continues to inspire him as a storyteller. Russell Crowe has captivated audiences worldwide for over three decades. The New Zealand–born actor rose to fame with ROMPER STOMPER and went on to star in acclaimed films including L.A. CONFIDENTIAL, THE INSIDER, GLADIATOR, and A BEAUTIFUL MIND. His extensive filmography spans genres and generations, with standout performances in AMERICAN GANGSTER, LES MISÉRABLES, and THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER. At the 21st Zurich Film Festival, Crowe presented NUREMBERG and received the Lifetime Achievement Award honoring his remarkable career. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world. 

In this ZFF Masters session, Irish actor Colin Farrell reflects on his remarkable journey through over two decades in film — from his early days on set to becoming one of the most versatile performers of his generation. Farrell shares insights into the making of BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER, his latest collaboration with filmmaker Edward Berger, and what acting has given him over the years. He also looks back on his creative partnerships with some of cinema's most distinctive voices, including Yorgos Lanthimos and Martin McDonagh. Farrell has built an extraordinary career across international arthouse and studio cinema, with acclaimed performances in IN BRUGES, THE LOBSTER, THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER, THE BATMAN, and THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN. At the Zurich Film Festival 2025, Farrell presented his latest film BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER and received the Golden Icon Award in honor of his outstanding career. BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER is available to stream on Netflix starting October 29. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world.  This ZFF Masters is presented by Deadline. Cover photo: Sandro Baebler

In this ZFF Masters* 2025 session, award-winning composer Hildur Guðnadóttir talks to composer Mirjam Skal about her distinctive approach to film scoring, her latest work on the film HEDDA, her iconic Academy Award–winning music for JOKER, the role of women in film music, and what inspires her future work. HEDDA will be available for streaming on Amazon prime from October 29.   With her singular style, Hildur Guðnadóttir counts among the most innovative composers of our time and serves as a role model for young talents worldwide. Her groundbreaking score for HBO's CHERNOBYLearned her an Emmy, for JOKER, she became the first solo woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Original Score, before also receiving an Oscar and a Grammy. Her diverse body of work spans SICARIO: THE DAY OF THE SOLDADO, MARY MAGDALENE, WOMEN TALKING, JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX, and TÁR. Beyond film and television, the Icelandic cellist and composer has released four solo albums and created original works for theatre and dance. ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, offering audiences an inspiring insight into their creative process and artistic vision. *Please note that the music excerpts in this episode have been edited due to licensing reasons Cover-Photo: Sandro Bäbler

In this ZFF Masters session, filmmaker Edward Berger talks to festival director Christian Jungen about his new film BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER, collaborating with Colin Farrell, turning down OCEAN'S 14, and his journey from German film to international cinema — including his deep connection to Switzerland. The writer-director, known for his emotionally rich and visually precise storytelling, Berger has earned global recognition with acclaimed works such as ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT (2022) and CONCLAVE (2024), receiving Oscar and BAFTA honors. His films feature international talents including Daniel Brühl, Isabella Rossellini, Ralph Fiennes and Colin Farrell, who joined him for his latest film, BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER. The film is avialable for streaming on Netflix from October 29.   ZFF Masters are in-depth conversations with renowned voices from world cinema, which are open to the public and take place during the Zurich Film Festival. They offer audiences insight into the creative process and artistic vision of personalities in film around the world. Cover photography: Sven Bänziger

Es ist wieder so weit – die schönste Zeit des Jahres für alle Filmfans steht vor der Tür. Vom 25. September bis zum 5. Oktober 2025 findet das 21. Zurich Film Festival statt. Der grüne Teppich wird ausgerollt und wie immer erwarten uns Filme mit Oscar-Potenzial, hochkarätige Gäste und jede Menge Filmperlen aus aller Welt. In dieser Episode sprechen Festival Director Christian Jungen und Anja Fröhner über die Highlights des diesjährigen Programms, verraten, welche Filme schon jetzt als Favoriten der Award Season gehandelt werden – und teilen ihre Geheimtipps für einzigartige Kinoerlebnisse.

Alicia Vikander is one of the most talented actresses of her generation. The Swedish Oscar winner has captivated audiences with her versatility, starring in everything from historical dramas such as THE DANISH GIRL to action-packed blockbusters like TOMB RAIDER. At the Zurich Film Festival 2024, she returned to present her latest film alongside director Fleur Fortuné: THE ASSESSMENT, a gripping sci-fi thriller hitting Swiss cinemas on April 10. In her ZFF Masters talk, Vikander shared insights into the making of the film, her collaboration with Fortuné, and highlights from her impressive career.

As part of the ZFF Masters, our audience gathers to watch talks with actors, directors, screenwriters and other filmmakers. In this episode, Pamela Anderson is our guest. Pamela Anderson is a Canadian American actress, model and activist. She rose to international fame in the 1990s with her role as lifeguard C.J. Parker in the hit series BAYWATCH. However, her breakthrough came earlier, during the 1980s, when she worked as a model for Playboy magazine, appearing on the cover more times than anyone else. In addition to her work as an actress, Anderson is a passionate animal rights advocate. In this ZFF Masters episode, Pamela Anderson talks about her latest film THE LAST SHOWGIRL and looks back at the highlights of her career.

As part of the ZFF Masters, our audience gathers to watch talks with actors, directors, screenwriters and other filmmakers. In this episode, Jude Law is our guest. Jude Law has already worked with numerous renowned directors such as Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese and Wes Anderson and has appeared in classics of film history such as THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY (1999), THE HOLIDAY (2006), SHERLOCK HOLMES (2009), and THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL (2014). In this ZFF Masters episode, Law talks about his latest film THE ORDER and looks back at the highlights of his career.

Im Rahmen der ZFF Masters findet sich unser Publikum in einem Kinosaal ein, um Talks mit Schauspielern, Regisseurinnen, Drehbuchautorinnen oder anderen Filmschaffenden zu verfolgen. In dieser Folge ist Howard Shore zu Gast. Howard Shore ist einer der renommiertesten Komponisten unserer Zeit und ein Ausnahmetalent, dessen Werke Filmgeschichte geschrieben haben und dessen Musik in Konzertsälen auf der ganzen Welt von den angesehensten Orchestern aufgeführt wird. Im ZFF Masters spricht Howard Shore über seine Karriere und gibt Einblicke in seine kreative Arbeit und die Prozesse hinter seiner Musik.

Sandro Meyer von Swiss Pioneers hat im Rahmen des 20. ZFF Tim Fehlbaum interviewt. Der Basler Regisseur steckt hinter dem Meisterwerk SEPTEMBER 5, das gerade international begeistert und als heisser Favorit im Rennen um die Oscars gilt. Im Interview gibt der Filmemacher Einblick in seine Arbeit. Er erzählt davon, wie die Idee zu SEPTEMBER 5 entstand und welche Herausforderungen und schönen Momente ihm im Laufe dieses Projekts begegnet sind.

Im Rahmen der ZFF Masters findet sich unser Publikum in einem Kinosaal ein, um Talks mit Schauspielern, Regisseurinnen, Drehbuchautorinnen oder anderen Filmschaffenden zu verfolgen. In dieser Folge ist Emil Steinberger zu Gast. Seit Jahrzehnten begeistert der gebürtige Luzerner mit seinen Sketchen nicht nur das Publikum diesseits und jenseits des Röstigrabens, sondern auch weit über die Landesgrenzen hinaus. Emil Steinberger wurde am 20. Zurich Film Festival für sein Lebenswerk ausgezeichnet und hat den Lifetime Achievement Award persönlich entgegengenommen. In Begleitung von Weggefährtinnen und Weggefährten, sowie seiner Frau Niccel und weiteren prominenten Gästen, hat Emil zudem den neuen Dokumentarfilm TYPISCH EMIL – VOM LOSLASSEN UND NEUANFANGEN von Phil Meyer an der Gala-Premiere präsentiert. Ein bewegender Dokumentarfilm über 90 Jahre Emil Steinberger, in dem der unverkennbare Schalk des Künstlers immer wieder aufblitzt – genauso wie in dieser ZFF Masters Folge.

Rückblick auf das Kinojahr 2024: In dieser Podcastfolge werfen unser Artistic Director Christian Jungen und unsere Head of Programme & Guests Anja Fröhner einen Blick zurück auf ein bewegtes Filmjahr mit Lieblingsfilmen, Oscar-Favoriten und der einen oder anderen Überraschung.