Studio Babelsberg celebrated its 100th birthday in 2012. More than 3000 films have been shot there at Bioscop, Ufa, DEFA and Studio Babelsberg. The film factory has always been a manufactory for the dreams of artists and the powerful.
It produced in five political systems from the imperial era to globalization, and was shaped by the Nazi era and the GDR.
Because films are still made according to traditional patterns despite rapid developments, the phases of film production form the structure of the exhibition: at the beginning there is an idea that becomes a screenplay. Once a producer is found, the cast, costumes, make-up and production design begin to work. Filming is followed by editing and sound design. If the premiere audience celebrates, the film is a box office success or wins awards, the filmmakers are happy. In each of the seven staged themed rooms, visitors to the exhibition discover valuable original exhibits, films and filmmakers from 100 years of Babelsberg film history. Interactive modules allow them to playfully and intuitively try their hand at casting or editing a film, experience what it's like to sing with Zarah Leander or rehearse with the Babelsberg Film Orchestra.
A computer-based information system and an accompanying book also provide information about the background to film production in the context of contemporary history and about the people who worked on films in Babelsberg.