THE PROJECT
The Mirror is a documentary film that follows the creation process of one of the most advanced telescopes in the world: the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). The film chronicles the journey of the giant mirror elements produced by SCHOTT, from manufacturing to the thrilling moment when they first capture the light of the stars: the “first light.” Looking into these mirrors allows us to reflect on ourselves: Where do we come from? What role do we play in the universe? And what else is out there?
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The Project
The project "The Mirror" is being realized on behalf of SCHOTT AG and in collaboration with the ESO.
Credit: ESO/L. Calçada
MEET THE TEAM
Directed by
Award-winningdirector
Lena Leonhardt is a German director and filmmaker.
Her creative range spans from independent European co-productions for cinema and TV to mainstream documentary series for international streaming platforms like Netflix. Her diverse films have received multiple awards, including the Grimme Prize.
Produced by
STUDIOVIERGmbH
StudioVier is a full-service video production company specializing in live-action, animation, and 2D/3D visuals. They are passionate about telling great stories and creating beautiful imagery. StudioVier accompanies projects from start to finish, working with agencies or directly with clients. They develop and produce moving images that are both creative and impactful, always aiming to tell stories in a unique and engaging way.
Commissioned by
SCHOTTAG
SCHOTT, an international technology group based in Mainz, Germany, develops high-quality specialty glass, glass-ceramics, and polymers for high-tech applications. As a fully owned subsidiary of the Carl Zeiss Foundation, profits are invested in promoting science and research worldwide. Its innovations, from flexible glass for foldable smartphones to mirror substrates for the world’s largest telescopes, push technological boundaries.
Watch Director’s Showreel
Actors Behind
INSIGHT INTO LENA'S WORK
My curiosity is what drives me in my film projects. I am especially fascinated by stories that reveal unexplored or unconventional perspectives. My works are born from a blend of personal observation, global developments, and a passion for telling both intimate and universal experiences. In doing so, I combine creative freedom with the art of making challenging topics accessible to a broad audience.
Quote by Lena Leonhardt
"The exciting thing about this project is - in every respect - its dimension. Looking in the mirror opens up completely unknown worlds to us, but conversely requires us to reflect on our own magnificent and yet fallible existence."
That’s in for you
BE PART OF THE JOURNEY
Witnessing the creation of one of the most advanced telescopes in the world and its potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. As a part of this journey, you’ll be immersed in cutting-edge technology, visionary science, and profound philosophical questions about humanity’s place in the cosmos.
Contact
GET IN TOUCH
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