Jannis Lenz, a gifted and accomplished filmmaker, embarked upon a challenging and enriching academic journey by pursuing his Master's degree in Directing at the esteemed University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, where he had the privilege of being mentored by the illustrious and celebrated director Jessica Hausner.
Throughout his time at the university, Lenz had the opportunity to refine his craft and develop his unique filmmaking style under the watchful eye of Hausner, who is renowned for her innovative and thought-provoking approach to storytelling.
Furthermore, Lenz's academic pursuits were complemented by his experience as an assistant to the acclaimed and highly respected filmmaker Michael Haneke, whose impressive body of work has garnered widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades.
Under Haneke's guidance, Lenz was able to gain valuable insights into the filmmaking process, develop his technical skills, and hone his ability to bring complex and nuanced stories to life on the big screen.
Through his academic and professional endeavors, Lenz has demonstrated a remarkable talent for storytelling, a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of the art of filmmaking, all of which have contributed to his emergence as a talented and promising young filmmaker.
Born and raised in the culturally rich and historically significant country of Germany, Lenz's formative years were characterized by an innate fascination with the art of filmmaking, a passion that would eventually propel him towards a lifelong career in the industry.
As a young individual, Lenz's curiosity about the world of filmmaking was ignited, prompting him to take the first step towards realizing his dreams by acquiring his very first camera. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see him hone his skills as a director, experimenting with various techniques and methods to capture the world around him.
One of the earliest and most influential experiences that shaped Lenz's filmmaking journey was his involvement in the urban sport of Le Parkour. Alongside his friends, he would engage in this high-energy activity, capturing their adventures and exploits on camera. This marked the beginning of a creative partnership that would see Lenz work closely with his friends, learning from them and refining his craft in the process.
Through his experiences with Le Parkour, Lenz developed a unique perspective on the world, one that was characterized by a sense of adventure, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. These qualities would serve him well as he continued to hone his skills as a filmmaker, eventually leading him to become the accomplished director he is today.
Noted artist Lenz has made a significant impact in the world of video installations, utilizing his creative vision to explore the dynamic intersection of dance, performance, and public spaces. His remarkable works have been showcased in esteemed museums and exhibitions across the globe, captivating audiences with their unique blend of artistry and innovation.
Lenz's film endeavors have also garnered widespread recognition, with his films frequently premiering at prominent international film festivals. These prestigious events include the IFF Rotterdam, FNC Montreal, Sarajevo IFF, and Palm Springs ISFF, among others. As a result of his tireless efforts, Lenz has received numerous awards and accolades, further solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
One of Lenz's most notable achievements is his Bachelor-Degree Film, WANNABE, which took home the prestigious Prix Clermont-Ferrand. This remarkable achievement was followed by a nomination for the European Film Awards, a testament to the high esteem in which Lenz's work is held by the film community.
Lenz's creative output frequently navigates the ambiguous territories between fictional narrative and documentary-style storytelling, frequently partnering with non-professional actors to delve into profound themes that revolve around the complexities of identity, the notion of role models, and the quest for a sense of belonging within the context of a rapidly globalizing society.
Notable filmmaker's inaugural master's thesis film and inaugural feature-length documentary, titled SOLDAT AHMET, made its world premiere at the prestigious Visions du Réel festival, garnering a multitude of accolades, including the esteemed Charles E. Guggenheim Emerging Artist Award and the coveted Award of the Austrian Film Institute for Best Upcoming Director.
Lenz is actively engaged in the development of his inaugural narrative feature film, FREAKS, as a participant in the esteemed Talent Film Program of the Kuratorium Junger Deutscher Film, a prestigious organization in Germany that fosters and supports the creative endeavors of emerging filmmakers.
