Edgar Reitz' new historical work: Leibniz on the big screen!

Edgar Reitz' new historical work: Leibniz on the big screen!

On October 1st, 2025 the team invites you Philosophical Cafés Osnabrück, consisting of former university professors such as Elk Franke, Reinhold Mokrosch, Harald Kerber and Arnim Regenbogen, to a special event. The event not only offers a platform for philosophical discussions, but also the opportunity to experience the new film by master director Edgar Reitz.

The film “Leibniz – Chronicle of a Lost Image”, which was released in cinemas on September 18th, focuses on the life of the influential polymath Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. Reitz, who worked on the script for over a decade, is supported by a star-studded cast including Edgar Selge, Aenne Schwarz, Lars Eidinger and Barbara Sukowa. This cast ensures that the film is described as a “witty and entertaining delight.”

Film screening and discussion

There will be a special screening of the film on Sunday, October 5th at 11 a.m. at the Cinema Arthouse, E.M.-Remarque Ring 16, Osnabrück. After the film screening, there is the opportunity to discuss the film's philosophical questions with the Philosophical Café team. Prof. Wolfgang Lenzen, a recognized Leibniz researcher, will also address technical questions and discuss the significance of Leibniz's work.

The film itself focuses on an episode from 1704 when a court painter attempts to paint a portrait of Leibniz. It becomes clear that Leibniz doubts the ability of art to create more than a mere image. The court painter gives up in frustration and the young Dutch artist Aaltje van de Meer takes over the task. In haunting dialogues between Leibniz and the painter, topics such as art, God and life are discussed.

Breakfast and reservations

For participants of the event in the Philosophical Café, breakfast is also offered from 10 a.m. A reservation is possible by calling 0541 6006525. If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Arnim Regenbogen via email at arnim.regenbogen@uni-osnabrueck.de.

Edgar Reitz's film about Leibniz, which is not only historically proven but also fictional, illuminates the philosopher's humanity and remains uncertain about the painting until the end. Nevertheless, it sharpens our understanding of Leibniz as an important thinker of the Enlightenment who excelled in many disciplines. The film is staged as a chamber play and offers a cinematic portrait of the scientist that leaves the audience both entertaining and thoughtful.

Overall, the event promises a captivating mix of philosophy, art and entertainment and is a must for anyone interested in the work of Leibniz and the questions of modern philosophy.