Matthijs Wouter Knol • CEO and director, European Film Academy
“We've introduced initiatives to keep European cinema relevant and accessible”
- The CEO and director of the European Film Academy discusses the context of the 37th edition of the European Film Awards, to be held on 7 December
Matthijs Wouter Knol, the CEO and director of the European Film Academy, tells us more about the context of the 37th edition of the European Film Awards, set to be held in Lucerne, Switzerland, on 7 December.
Cineuropa: How has your role as director of the European Film Academy evolved since you became CEO of the organisation in 2021?
Matthijs Wouter Knol: My focus has been on broadening the Academy's scope beyond organising the Awards. We've introduced initiatives like the European Film Club for young audiences and a European Film Heritage department to celebrate the rich history of European cinema as part of a more significant effort to keep European cinema relevant and accessible.
The Academy now plays a more active role throughout the year, fostering connections between members and promoting European cinema in all its diversity. While our resources are modest compared to organisations like the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, our extensive network across 52 countries allows us to make a meaningful impact.
Switzerland will host this year's European Film Awards in Lucerne. Can you share some context about this collaboration and its significance?
The Academy operates across 52 European countries beyond EU borders. Switzerland has been a longstanding part of the European Film Academy's network despite not hosting the Awards until now. We have collaborated with Swiss partners to organise the event in Lucerne as part of a year-long initiative to highlight Swiss cinema. The programme included various activities, including a kick-off reception in Berlin for Academy members, a Swiss focus at Cannes, and events during the Locarno Film Festival. This buildup connected Swiss cinema with the broader European film landscape and amplified the overall experience.
This year also marks the last time the European Film Awards will be held in December. Starting in 2026, the event will move to January. What is the rationale behind this change?
There are three main reasons. Firstly, we wanted to extend the viewing window for Academy members to watch and vote for the nominated films. Secondly, we're connecting our "Month of European Film" to a broader campaign season, culminating in the Awards. This extended timeline allows audiences to engage more with the films vying for nominations.
Finally, aligning the event with the international awards season places the European Film Awards strategically within the awards corridor between the Golden Globes and the Oscars. This positioning enhances visibility and prestige within the global industry.
The "Month of European Film" initiative, launched in 2022, has grown significantly. Can you share some insights into the initiative and its success so far?
The programme highlights European titles already in cinemas while encouraging special events like retrospectives and screenings of European film heritage. Cinemas across Europe curate their own programmes, resulting in a rich, diverse celebration of European cinema.
The initiative began as a trial in Berlin during the 2021 pandemic in partnership with Yorck Cinemas, and has expanded to over 100 cities across 42 countries as of this year. Attendance and participation have tripled since its inception. This year, we've seen significant participation from Swiss cities and an exciting first with all cinemas in Montenegro taking part.
Diversity and inclusion are increasingly crucial in cinema. How is the Academy addressing these issues, particularly in its nominations and selections?
Diversity and inclusion are central to our selection process. While the focus remains on excellence, we ensure gender equality and representation of underrepresented groups. This commitment has led to steady progress, with 40% of last year's film selections being directed by women and 32% this year. These numbers reflect broader industry challenges, but we're proud of our progress. The Academy is committed to promoting inclusivity in European cinema and will continue championing diversity in its selections.
There's still a myth about the European Film Academy being an exclusive club. What would you say to those who want to get involved?
It's a misconception that I’m keen to debunk. Anyone professionally involved in European cinema – whether as a filmmaker, producer, distributor, critic or funder – can apply for membership. Becoming a member is a way to join this effort and make a difference as Europeans in today's landscape, where US content dominates.
