HOWISNATURE?! in Hof: Experience Nature Conservation History at Central Cinema
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HOWISNATURE?!: A Movie Night About Nature Conservation, Courage, and Change
Can a single person protect nature and change the world? The documentary HOWISNATURE?! tells the moving life and impact story of biologist and peatland researcher Michael Succow. As part of the 16th German-German Film Days, the 60-minute film will be shown on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Central Cinema in Hof.
History of Nature Conservation on the Big Screen
Michael Succow shaped nature conservation in Germany and far beyond. In the GDR, he first stood out as a passionate ornithologist. Later, he became an inconvenient scientist, committed nature conservationist, and internationally recognized peatland expert.
The focus is on the years 1989 and 1990, during which Succow, together with a few allies, developed a historic nature conservation program. Five national parks, six UNESCO biosphere reserves, and three nature parks were created on about 4.5 percent of the area of the former GDR. The film makes visible how scientific expertise, political acumen, and personal commitment led to a German-German nature conservation revolution.
From the Peatlands of the GDR to the World
After the reunification, Michael Succow applied his experiences to international nature conservation. Protected areas were established in Kyrgyzstan, Kamchatka, Azerbaijan, and Ethiopia, among others. For his engagement, he received the Alternative Nobel Prize in 1997.
Director Jakob Friedrich connects historical developments with current questions: How can nature conservation succeed in times of global crises? What significance do peatlands, healthy soils, and natural habitats hold? And how can individuals take responsibility? The event experience is aimed at nature enthusiasts, politically interested viewers, and anyone passionate about environmental education and sustainable development.
Film Screening with Personal Perspective
Kathrin Succow is announced as a guest. The daughter of Michael Succow, Executive Producer and Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees of the Michael Succow Foundation, brings a personal and expert perspective on the life and work of the nature conservationist. The event will be moderated by Dr. Roland Löffler, Director of the Saxon State Center for Political Education.
The organization as part of the German-German Film Days combines documentary film, contemporary history, and political discussion. After the film screening, there will be space for reflection and exchange on nature conservation, social responsibility, and the power of individual ideas.
A Film That Inspires Action
HOWISNATURE?! not only showcases the successes of an extraordinary scientist. The film also tells the stories of people advocating for healthy soils, new primeval forests, and ancient peatlands. The audience's mood thrives on the combination of a moving biography, impressive nature themes, and the question of how change can succeed today.
The film was awarded the Audience Prize at the Brandenburg Eco Film Tour 2026. This underscores the event's importance for environmental education and a lively engagement with sustainable nature conservation.
Conclusion: Nature Conservation as a Personal Task
The audience at the Central Cinema in Hof can expect a focused documentary film evening with historical insights, scientific expertise, and personal conversation. Those who want to understand how national parks and protected areas are created and the role committed individuals play will experience an inspiring evening with HOWISNATURE?! Mark the date now and experience nature conservation history live in the cinema.
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