"Greetings from Mars" wins the award in the ‘Children and Young People’ category.
The family film “Greetings from Mars” tells the story of a bright young boy on the autism spectrum who perceives the world in his very own way. As his family faces changes that disrupt his familiar daily routine, his mother devises an unusual plan: a stay of several weeks with his grandparents becomes a space mission, in which every challenge seems like an expedition to a foreign planet. Together with his siblings, he embarks on a journey full of misunderstandings, tests of courage and tender moments of connection. Whilst conflicts, overwhelming demands and intense emotions shape their stay, the trio grows closer together. The film blends humour and seriousness, sensitively portraying how a boy with autism experiences his environment – caught between sensory overload, clear logic and a deep desire to belong. In the end, it becomes clear: every perspective offers its own valuable view of the world.
The jury’s verdict: “‘Greetings from Mars’ stands out as an outstanding family film because it depicts the upbringing of a boy on the autism spectrum with extraordinary sensitivity, accuracy and narrative power. The portrayal of his perception is particularly successful: sounds become overwhelming, social situations seem puzzling, routines provide security. The film not only makes this inner world visible, but also tangible. The audience directly experiences the overwhelming nature of the situation, withdrawal and creative coping strategies – without dramatising or oversimplifying [...]”.