The main character in this wonderful tale by director Hamid Sardar is Mongolia’ natural environment. No less important is its human protagonist, who impresses with his strength of character and his readiness to fully dedicate himself to this environment. With perfectly choreographed dramaturgy, the film recounts his mission: to advocate for and protect bears in his country’s seemingly infinite north-eastern borderlands. But one life is not enough to resolve the simmering conflicts between humans and nature here, which play out especially with the nomads and local population, who maintain that they should be able to use their land and natural resources as they see fit. Watching the film awestruck, one cannot help but wonder how the director manages to create these images without ever intervening in the course of events. This highly resolute documentary deserves the Grand Prix Graz prize for 2024. — Jury justification

The relationship between people and nature in alpine regions and beyond is the central theme of this special documentary. We humans believe that we know and are masters of everything. With impressive images of the fauna’s current life, the film’s director unambiguously shows us that this is clearly not true. This complexity and the diversity it entails move the viewer to delve deeper into Europe’s current “Wilderness 2.0”. — Jury justification

The film’s “heroes”, Benjamin and Nicolas, prove themselves to be well equipped mentally and, above all, physically for their attempt at a record on their first eight-thousander. But even their formidable climbing prowess doesn’t render them infallible. The film provides the important lesson that even fit young, but nonetheless experienced mountain guides can fail. This profound message is imparted here with excellent camera work and outstanding storytelling, which make this film an intense experience. — Jury justification

This deeply moving story shows the hitherto unknown side of a popular climber: We experience her as a young mother concerned about her daughter’s wellbeing. We bear witness as a climbing expedition in the desert and mountains of Morocco turns into an immense challenge. Life, death and climbing – a trinity turned into a humanitarian mission that makes for a moving story. The dramaturgy is exceptionally sensitive and framed by equally outstanding camera work. — Jury justification

The sheer number of outstanding productions in this category presented the jury with a serious dilemma. They finally opted for the fascinating story of lion researcher Dr. Philip Stander, as told in exceptional footage by Will and Lianne Steenkamp. A story such as can unfold only in merciless wilderness, far from civilisation and human interference. This work’s outstanding dramaturgy shows a lonely protagonist in his ceaseless endeavour to follow the fortunes and remarkable development of young lions in the endless expanses of the Namib Desert and all the way to its edge. The masterful realisation of the narrative moved the jury to award this documentary the main prize in this category. — Jury justification

A story about an international climbing competition abruptly turns into a deep emotional immersion into the war in Ukraine. Throughout the world, climbers are people like you and me – also in war-torn regions. This film highlights the power of this form of joyful activity and the resulting friendship among the athletes, which provide moral support in upholding the forces of strength and resistance. The British protagonist’s boldness and commentary illustrate this attitude. Barely anyone would hitherto have ascribed such an importance to this sporting passion. — Jury justification