German “Casting Queen” An Dorthe Braker to Receive Lifetime Honor

The renowned casting director, Dorthe Braker, affectionately titled the “queen of German cinema’s casting,” was announced on Monday as the recipient of an honorary German Film Award. This recognition is in acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions to the world of German cinema.

In the early ’90s, before filmmaking was officially acknowledged in Germany, Braker paved the way as a trailblazer by introducing a U.S.-inspired casting method to the German film industry. Her contributions to projects such as “Run Lola Run,” “Downfall,” and “Nowhere in Africa” have consistently brought forth new waves of German talent into the global spotlight.

Alexandra Maria Lara, president of the German Film Academy, stated that many actor biographies wouldn’t exist without her. Her groundbreaking role in the Oscar-nominated ‘Downfall’ paved the way. She’s had a profound impact on the casting director profession with her decisive approach, significantly contributing to the growth and success of German cinema.

Among Braker’s numerous accomplishments are the films The Baader Meinhof Complex (2008), which was nominated for an Oscar, and Schtonk! (1992). Additionally, he created groundbreaking TV series such as In the Face of Crime (2010) and Hell (2011). Tim Fehlbaum’s first feature film, September 5, was also under his direction.

At the 75th German Film Awards in Berlin on May 9, Braker will be bestowed with her honor. Remarkably, Christian Friedel – this year’s host and an actor known for his roles in ‘The Zone of Interest’ and ‘The White Lotus’, also had one of his early career-defining moments through a casting by Braker. She was the one who suggested him for the lead role in Oliver Hirschbiegel’s ’13 Minutes’ (2015).

The nominations for the 2025 German film awards, or Lolas, will be unveiled on Monday, March 17.

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2025-03-10 13:24