Whether blockbusters such as “The Physician” and “Rush” or international art-house successes like Jim Jarmusch’s “Only Lovers Left Alive” and Lars von Trier’s “Nymphomaniac" are concerned, Cologne is one of the most important production and shooting locations for big-screen movies in Germany. This is due partly to the MMC Studios, whose facilities have impressed Oscar winners such as Ben Kingsley and Helen Mirren. But also to the production companies in Cologne, which repeatedly demonstrate they have the right feeling for interesting material and the right cast. Often highly respected documentary films find their way from Cologne to movie screens and international festivals. The media metropolis is also home to famous film distributors and marketers. Cologne is also a centre for many film fans who have founded clubs, organise festivals and film series or simply enjoy going to the cinema. It is not uncommon for Cologne’s cinemas to stage glamorous premieres – one further reason why the stars frequently travel to the Rhine.