German Film Award: This is what host Daniel Donskoy planned

“Sankt Maik” star Daniel Donskoy (31) has made a name for himself in the German film and television landscape in recent years. He was also able to record some successes as a musician. With “Friday Night Jews”, the Moscow-born offspring of a Ukrainian-Russian and Jewish family also has its own late-night show on WDR.

On Friday (October 1st) Donskoy will face a new task: He will present the 71st award of the German Film Prize. From 11 p.m. ZDF will broadcast the gala from Berlin. The 31-year-old has big plans for his moderation: “It’s getting younger, more modern and a big show,” reveals Donskoy in an interview with the news agency spot on news.

You will take on this year’s moderation of the German Film Prize. What was the first thing you thought when you heard about it?

Daniel Donskoy: I was very happy about the challenge. I’m not a classic moderator, but an artist with a clear political and social stance that I allow to flow into my art. This award ceremony will also have this signature. It’s getting younger, more modern and a big show.

How did you prepare and how do you want to make an impression on your colleagues?

Donskoy: We have been writing and working on the show for two months. With my co-authors Samira El Ouassil and Martin Schlesinger, the process of development has been truly inspiring. The two are not afraid to try things out and our night-long Zoom conferences have always been a pleasure. Musically it will also be demanding. With Karim Elias Sebastian, a real virtuoso, we were able to give the whole award a musical overall structure. From pop to hip hop to Hollywood-esque elements, it will be really varied.

You have not previously hosted an award ceremony on German television. How nervous are you?

Donskoy: By the way, I’ve never really moderated, except for “Friday Night Jews” – but that’s something completely different. It was small, cozy and boozy there. I was more of a host and was very open and personal with my guests, because it was about identities. Here the task is very different. There will be no vodka during the show. It’s not small and intimate either. But hey, the first time you are free of expectations and I want to give the audience in the hall and in front of the TV a great evening and have fun myself.

What do you do about stage fright?

Donskoy: There is nothing you can do about that, and besides, this feeling is one of the most lively. The most glaring thing is the excitement before a show, whether it’s music or theater – I feel alive.

The trailers get down to business: they are beaten and kidnapped. How else do you intend to stir up the film award?

Donskoy: You have to tune in on October 1st, but I promise a lot of surprises.

If you look at the nominees: Has the German film industry changed for you?

Donskoy: It’s definitely very political this year, which makes me happy. But overall, the industry still has to do a lot to meet the declared diversity requirements.

Do you have any favorites among the nominees?

Donskoy: Sure, but I have to remain impartial and I’m excited to see who will take Lola home with me for the best film.

Will someone accompany you to the film award?

Donskoy: Yes, my mom is from Tel Aviv.

Many actors have the goal of holding a German Film Award in their hands one day. How important are such awards to you?

Donskoy: I would be lying if I said not at all. When we were named “Best Late Night” at the television award for “Friday Night Jews” this year, I was really speechless. A great honor to have been nominated alongside Jan Böhmermann and Carolin Kebekus. When you put everything you have into a project – especially emotionally – then it is of course the best feeling in the world to win.

You are filming “Barbarians” for Netflix. How is the shooting going?

Donskoy: It’s a tough physical and playful challenge. The contrast between the purism on the set in Poland and the glamor show in Berlin couldn’t be greater. After the film award, it goes straight back to the role of Flavus.