Momentum Award

The Bremen Film Festival is introducing a new award, the MOMENTUM Award, which honours filmmakers at the height of their careers. The first laureate is the British actor Jason Isaacs, who is being honored for his exceptional versatility and range as a character actor. The award ceremony and masterclass will take place on Saturday 18 April at 7.30 pm in the Upper Town Hall.

The MOMENTUM Award combines three programme elements: a curated film screening as an introduction to the laureate’s work, a masterclass for emerging talent and industry professionals, and the festive award ceremony at Bremen City Hall. A wind ensemble from the Bremen Philharmonic Orchestra will provide the musical accompaniment. Unlike the Sparkasse Bremen Film Prize, which has been awarded for over 25 years and honours a lifetime’s work, the MOMENTUM Award deliberately looks to the future: the award recognises individuals who are actively shaping the contemporary film landscape. The prize is sponsored by the Bremen-based production company Kinescope Film.

In 2026, the MOMENTUM Award will be presented for the first time to the British actor Jason Isaacs.

Isaacs is considered one of the most versatile character actors of his generation. He has appeared on screen alongside stars such as Matt Damon, John Cusack, and Steve Buscemi, and has worked with internationally acclaimed directors including Ridley Scott and Roland Emmerich. His extraordinary work ethic and artistic range are reflected in an impressive filmography: in some years, he is involved in up to twelve productions simultaneously, developing a wide variety of diverse character profiles.

Isaacs achieved worldwide fame as Lucius Malfoy in the “Harry Potter” series, as Captain Gabriel Lorca in “Star Trek: Discovery,” and as Captain Hook in “Peter Pan.” With his intense and multi-layered performances, he has also left his mark on successful television productions such as “Brotherhood” and “The White Lotus.”

Isaacs is particularly esteemed for his ability to craft complex characters with extraordinary depth. Especially as an antagonist, he commands a powerful presence, bringing an intensity even to supporting roles that frequently becomes a talking point for both audiences and critics alike. His portrayal of the brutal Colonel in “The Patriot” garnered international attention and was widely discussed by critics as an award-worthy performance.

Moderated film screening

Friday, April 17 at 1:30 p.m. at City 46

An introduction to the work of Jason Isaacs,

followed by a screening of “The Salt Path“.

Awards Ceremony and Masterclass

Saturday, April 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the Upper Town Hall

(Doors open at 7:00 p.m.)

Ceremony with awards presentation, masterclass, and a reception to follow.

€10/€8 – Free for accredited guests and festival pass holders.

Registration via event@filmfestbremen.com

Please indicate your ticket status (full price / reduced / accreditation / festival pass).