The 2026 Thomas Strittmatter Prize has been awarded to ifs alumni Duc-Thi Bui and Philipp Lutz. They were honored for their screenplay for the drama »Malibu«. The prize, worth 20,000 euros and sponsored by MFG Medien- und Filmgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg mbH, is one of the most highly endowed screenplay awards in Germany.

»Malibu« tells the story of 17-year-olds Jonas and David, who meet while battling cancer—a story of closeness, friendship, and love, told with great sensitivity and cinematic power.

The jury, chaired by Laila Stieler, described the screenplay as “outstanding” and particularly praised the writers’ approach to their characters as well as the lightness and magic of the narrative. The award was presented at an MFG reception during the 76th Berlinale at the Baden-Württemberg State Representation by Arne Braun, State Secretary at the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Culture and Media (MWK), and MFG Managing Director Carl Bergengruen.

Created on 19.02.2026