When does the event take place?

On June 14, 2026, at 12:45 PM in the Schauburg Filmpalast in Gelsenkirchen.

What is the admission fee?

The regular price is 6.00 euros. Reduced tickets cost 5.00 euros, with GE-Pass 3.00 euros.

How long does the film last?

The documentary has a runtime of 55 minutes.

Who presents the evening?

Claus Bredenbrock presents the film personally.

Is the venue easily accessible?

Yes. The Schauburg Filmpalast is located at Horster Straße 6 in 45897 Gelsenkirchen. Parking is available at the parking garage on Querstraße Rottmannsiepe.

Is there an age rating?

Yes. The film is rated for ages 12 and up.

A politically charged film afternoon about Martin Luther King and historical truth

Name: Martin Luther King - A State Crime
Start: 2026-06-14T14:45:00+02:00
End: 2026-06-14T15:40:00+02:00
Location: Schauburg Filmpalast

A documentary look at Martin Luther King at the Schauburg Filmpalast

With Martin Luther King - A State Crime, the series Contemporary History focuses on one of the most consequential political conflicts of the 20th century. The documentary by Claus Bredenbrock and Pagonis Pagonakis combines historical research with a compelling author encounter on site, as the filmmaker born in Gelsenkirchen-Buer personally presents his film nominated for the Grimme Award.

Historical depth instead of mere retrospection

The evening delves into the controversy surrounding the assassination of Martin Luther King on April 4, 1968, in Memphis. The film traces the doubts about the official version and highlights the later court proceedings of 1999, in which the jurors spoke of a murder conspiracy. This combination of analysis, archival suspense, and political sharpness lends the reading atmosphere a unique intensity that goes far beyond an ordinary cinema evening.

Claus Bredenbrock as an expert narrator

Claus Bredenbrock has stood for documentary verbal art, journalistic accuracy, and themes of social relevance for decades. His biography, his work as a freelance author and director, as well as his long-standing engagement with history, media, and political narratives also shape this film evening. Those who appreciate contemporary historical topics, documentary storytelling, and cultural discourse will experience an evening with a clear stance and high literary-essayistic density.

The venue: Schauburg Filmpalast with a classic cinema flair

The Schauburg Filmpalast at Horster Straße 6 is one of the most traditional addresses in the city. The venue combines classic cinema flair with a concentrated atmosphere, which is perfect for arthouse, community cinema, and demanding film discussions. Convenient for arrival: A parking garage is located around the corner on Querstraße Rottmannsiepe. The film starts on Sunday afternoon, making the visit a calm cultural event followed by a discussion.

An afternoon for politically aware film lovers

The screening not only offers a 55-minute documentary film but also the rare opportunity to experience the filmmaker himself. This creates a lively, focused cultural event with historical depth, an analytical perspective, and a strong contemporary relevance. Anyone interested in civil rights, U.S. history, and documentary storytelling should experience this event live.