Joanna Hogg Unveils ‘Awakening’ Trailer for 2025 Viennale

The Vienna International Film Festival, known as the Viennale, has released its trailer for the 2025 edition, directed by British filmmaker Joanna Hogg. Running from October 16 to 28, 2025, the festival showcases the creativity and diversity of global cinema. Hogg’s trailer, titled Awakening, aims to inspire audiences and prompt them to reflect on current global issues, encapsulating the essence of cinema as a powerful medium for change.

Hogg, renowned for her films such as The Souvenir and The Eternal Daughter, previously attended the Viennale in 2022 to present her latest work. In discussing her trailer, Hogg stated, “When are we going to wake up and open our eyes to what’s happening in the world?” This sentiment resonates in a time when many people may feel overwhelmed by the complexities of modern life.

According to Eva Sangiorgi, director of the Viennale, Hogg’s work reflects a “profoundly personal and political gesture.” Sangiorgi praised the film, emphasizing its ability to renew and invigorate the audience’s engagement with cinema. The trailer serves as a reminder of the festival’s tradition of featuring notable filmmakers in this creative role.

Notable Filmmakers Behind Viennale Trailers

Over the years, the Viennale has showcased a variety of trailers crafted by esteemed directors, each bringing a unique perspective to the festival. Previous contributors include legendary figures such as David Lynch and Jean-Luc Godard, whose works have left a lasting impact on the landscape of film.

In 2011, Lynch directed a memorable trailer titled The 3 Rs, which is celebrated for its surreal imagery and unconventional narrative. Godard’s contribution in 2008, Une Catastrophe, combined elements of warfare with themes of love, capturing the juxtaposition of human emotion against the backdrop of conflict.

Other notable trailers include French filmmaker Leos Carax‘s My Last Minute in 2006, which delivered a powerful anti-smoking message, and Romanian director Radu Jude, whose untitled 2024 trailer is anticipated to provoke discussions on contemporary issues.

The 2022 festival saw contributions from several prominent directors, including Claire Denis, whose Le Soldat juxtaposed scenes from classic films, and Ukrainian director Sergei Loznitsa, who provided a thought-provoking reflection on independence.

Legacy and Future of the Viennale

The Viennale has a rich history of showcasing innovative trailer work, with each edition reflecting the cultural and artistic climate of its time. This festival not only highlights established filmmakers but also offers a platform for emerging talents to share their visions.

As audiences prepare for the 2025 edition, Hogg’s Awakening trailer underscores the festival’s commitment to engaging with pressing social issues through the lens of film. The anticipation surrounding this year’s event is palpable, encouraging film enthusiasts worldwide to mark their calendars for a celebration of cinema from October 16 to 28, 2025.

The Viennale continues to be a significant cultural touchstone, celebrating the power of film to inspire, challenge, and awaken audiences to the possibilities of storytelling. With Hogg’s latest contribution, the festival promises to deliver an experience that is both thought-provoking and artistically enriching.