The region of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is home to one of Europe´s most active independent producer scenes. Not only are Lars von Trier and Jim Jarmusch usually produced by NRW companies, but also some of the most audacious creative documentary directors and a whole new wave of young filmmakers regularly produce successful work, which originates in NRW and goes on to be recognised worldwide, with invitations to the most prestigious film festivals such as Cannes, Berlinale, and Venice.

And this is no coincidence; due to one of Europe´s biggest studios (MMC), the strongest regional fund in Germany (Film- und Medienstiftung NRW) and the most powerful public broadcaster (WDR), the structure for producing independent films here is on an international top level.

This initiative does not only bring the spotlight towards a fresh and active filmmaker scene, it is also proof in itself of the good spirit amongst these various production companies. This collaborative mentality is typical for NRW and this may well be another reason why it is becoming one of the most attractive co-production regions worldwide.