Jens Schanze, a celebrated documentary filmmaker, emerged into the world in the charming city of Bonn, Germany, in the year 1971. His early years took an intriguing turn when, at the tender age of 16, he embarked on a life-enriching adventure, spending a year residing in the United States of America, thereby gaining invaluable exposure to a novel culture and broadening his horizons in a profound manner, which would have a lasting impact on his future endeavors.
After concluding his journey abroad, Schanze redirected his path by enrolling in a rigorous academic program at Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, where he simultaneously pursued a comprehensive degree in Forestry. This unconventional combination of studies would ultimately have a profound impact on his artistic endeavors, as it laid the groundwork for his distinctive filmmaking style.
In the year 1992, Schanze embarked on a new professional chapter, taking on the role of an assistant director in the television industry. Through this experience, he acquired invaluable knowledge and skills, which would serve as a solid foundation for his future accomplishments.
As his ardor for filmmaking continued to intensify, Schanze's trajectory took an unexpected turn. In 1994, he embarked upon a transformative journey that would span an entire year, immersing himself in the vibrant culture of Bolivia while working on a project in tandem with Conservation International.
Notably, in the year 1995, Schanze embarked on a significant educational journey by enrolling at the prestigious University of Television and Film in Munich, where he meticulously refined his filmmaking expertise.
Subsequently, in 2002, Schanze co-founded his production company, Mascha Film, alongside the accomplished producer Judith Malek-Mahdavi.
Under the banner of Mascha Film, Schanze has gone on to direct a plethora of acclaimed documentaries, including the notable WINTERKINDER, which premiered in 2005, and the critically acclaimed PLUG & PRAY, which made its debut in 2010.
Jens Schanze, a multifaceted individual, has left an indelible mark on the world of filmmaking, while also making a profound impact as an educator. His remarkable journey began in 2014, when he was appointed Professor of Film and Video Design, where he took on the noble task of imparting his vast knowledge and expertise to the next generation of aspiring filmmakers.
