RIP Hartmut Bitomsky

 

The DFFB mourns the loss of Hartmut Bitomsky

DFFB

September 25, 2025

 

It is with great sadness that we must say farewell to Hartmut Bitomsky. He was a student of the very first cohort of the DFFB, at first compelled to leave after one year, graduating in 1970 and ultimately returning as director of the DFFB from 2006 to 2009. A documentary filmmaker (“Der VW Komplex”, “Reichsautobahn”, “Highway 40 West”, “Das Kino und der Tod” or “Staub”, to name a few), film theorist and author (“Die Röte des Rots von Technicolor”), and an exceptionally keen observer of the world.

The DFFB owes Hartmut Bitomsky an immense debt of gratitude. Over the years, he shaped and inspired countless students and filmmakers, always approaching their work with openness and curiosity.

Hartmut Bitomsky passed away at the age of 83. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family and all those who shared his journey.

BITOMSKY, Hartmut

Born: 5/10/1942, Bremen, Germany

Died: 9/24/2025, Munich Bavaria, Germany

 

Hartmut Bitomsky’s western – self:

Go West, Young Man! – 2003 [himself]