The Cottbus Film Festival will once again be taking part in the Schmellwitz Open-Air Cinema Nights in 2026, bringing two special events to Ernst-Mucke-Platz: the return of the Lausitzer FilmSchau and a screening of the multi-award-winning Ukrainian science-fiction drama U ARE THE UNIVERSE.
The Lausitzer FilmSchau returns
On Wednesday 1 July 2026 at 6 pm, the Lausitzer FilmSchau will celebrate its comeback. The competition for emerging filmmakers offers filmmakers from Lower and Upper Lusatia a platform for their work, thereby continuing a long tradition of regional film promotion.
For this year’s edition, a selection committee reviewed film submissions and put together a programme lasting over two hours. Visitors can look forward to a diverse insight into contemporary filmmaking in Lusatia. The Lausitzer FilmSchau’s emerging talent awards will also be presented.
Admission is free.
Lausitzer FilmSchau
Wednesday, 1. Juli 2026
6 pm
Ernst-Mucke-Platz, Cottbus-Schmellwitz
Admission free
FFC Audience Award winner screened open-air
On Thursday 2 July 2026 at 9 pm, U ARE THE UNIVERSE – one of the audience favourites at the 2024 Cottbus Film Festival – will be screened.
The feature film debut by Ukrainian director Pavlo Ostrikov tells the story of an astronaut who, following the destruction of Earth, believes he is the last human in the universe. When a sign of life suddenly appears, an extraordinary and deeply moving journey through the vastness of space begins.
The film captivated audiences at the 2024 Cottbus Film Festival and was awarded the Audience Award as well as the Special Prize for Best Director.
With its blend of science fiction, romance and subtle humour, U ARE THE UNIVERSE ranks among the most remarkable Ukrainian films of recent years and impressively demonstrates the creative strength of Ukrainian cinema.
U ARE THE UNIVERSE
Thursday, 2. Juli 2026
9 pm
Ernst-Mucke-Platz, Cottbus-Schmellwitz
Admission free
We are delighted to be part of this special summer cinema in Cottbus and, together with the Bürgerverein Schmellwitz, to present the latest films, regional talent and extraordinary open-air cinema experiences.