A huge congratulations to this year’s outstanding winners, whose work showcases the very best in science storytelling, creativity, and innovation. This year’s winners and nominees were nothing short of extraordinary, which is an incredible testament to the power of factual storytelling to inspire curiosity, spark dialogue, and deepen our understanding of the world.
On Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, the winners were chosen at the Science & Media Award Show, at the Ulrichskirche in Halle (Saale).
The winners are:
BEST NATURE PROGRAM
Turtle Walker (director/author Taira Malaney)
The jury said: “[Turtle Walker] offers a compelling portrait of hope, perseverance, and the enduring connection between humanity and the natural world.”Many congrats to Malaney and the team behind this beautifully crafted film.
MITTELDEUTSCHER RUNDFUNK (MDR) AWARD
Black Snow (director Alina Simone)
BEST FACTUAL SERIES
We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) (director Jay Baruchel)
"Comedy in the factual realm is no easy feat, yet this series manages to bring wit and style to complex contemporary themes,” our jury shares. “ With its inventive style, it breathes a welcome freshness into the genre while effectively engaging a younger audience in urgent questions about the world we are shaping.”
SHORT & CRISP
Shadows in Sunlight (director Ruhi Hamid)
The jury shared that, “with striking cinematic energy and emotional depth”, Shadows in Sunlight is “a timely and compelling reminder of the human cost — and necessity — of trust in science.”This award is presented by the National Institute for Science Communication (NaWik gGmbH).
IMMERSIVE SCIENCE AWARD
Space Explorers: The ISS Experience (directors/authors Félix Lajeunesse & Paul Raphaël)
POWER OF SCIENCE AWARD: ENERGY
Black Snow (director Alina Simone)
The jury commented: “Its impact is undeniable — reminding us what is at stake in the global shift toward clean and sustainable energy. A powerful testament to human resilience and the urgent need for change.”A hearty round of applause to the team behind this revelatory documentary.The award is sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space as part of the Science Year 2025 – Energy of the Future.
BEST SCIENCE AWARD
Spillover - Planet of Viruses (director Michael Wech)
“An outstanding documentary which combines meticulous scientific research with gripping storytelling,” comments the jury. “Its portrayal of the scientists’ courage and risks they take in the pet suit of knowledge [reminds] us of the human dedication behind every breakthrough.”
See the full list of all extraordinary nominees below.
