not
lola
killing
A FILM BY MARTIN HAWIE
Martin Hawie | Director and Producer
I was born in 1975 in Lima, a vibrant city full of contrasts where stories intertwine with history itself. My life has been shaped by a rich cultural heritage: Peruvian, Catalan, and Lebanese roots have influenced my perspective and artistic sensibility. From an early age, art was my natural language. Painting and photography were my first forms of expression, but it was through film that I found the means to tell stories with the intensity and depth I had always been searching for.
I grew up with a deep fascination for imagery, for the film’s ability to capture emotions and transform reality. Every film I made was a discovery, another step in my artistic journey. With each project, I pushed my own boundaries, explored new forms of storytelling, and carved out a unique path in cinema. Today, after years of experience and with a clearer vision than ever, I feel a deeper connection to my craft.
I have learned that storytelling is not a solitary act but a shared journey with people who believe in the same vision, who understand that cinema is more than just an industry it is a way of life, a way to leave a lasting mark on the world. Film has been my refuge, my teacher, and my greatest adventure. And in this new chapter, I embrace it with more passion than ever, surrounded by people who share the same desire: to create something real, something that endures.
Damian Gorczany | Director of Photography
Damian Gorczany is a passionate cinematographer, known for his creative eye and enthusiasm for extraordinary projects.
With his experience and his unique sense for lighting, atmosphere, and visual composition, he will play a key role in shaping the visual language of our film, helping to tell this exceptional story in a visually compelling way.
Michael Arens | Sound Engineer
During and after his training as a media designer for image and sound, Michael Arens worked as a sound engineer on a wide variety of film and television productions.
Since 2009, he has been responsible for delivering outstanding sound for numerous documentary films for cinema and television, as well as a wide range of series and feature films. His portfolio places a strong emphasis on sophisticated documentaries and authentic narrative cinema.
Michael lives and works in Cologne.
Dominik Kowalski | Stunt Coordinator
Dominik Kowalski is our experienced stunt coordinator for Not Killing Lola! Having already brought the action scenes and choreography to life with his outstanding work on my previous film, Dominik consistently gives 110%.
For Not Killing Lola, Dominik once again brings his expertise to the table, perfectly staging the action sequences especially the killer’s spectacular motorcycle scenes. With him on board, we can be confident that every scene will not only be safe but also absolutely breathtaking!
Selected Filmography:
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Future is a Lonely Place (Die Zukunft ist ein einsamer Ort), 2021
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The Last Cop – The Movie (Der letzte Bulle - Der Kinofilm), 2019
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Out of Control, 2017
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Rush, 2013
Gregor Keienburg | Composer
Gregor Keienburg's work as a musician is defined by his great curiosity and a fundamental interest in everything that produces sound. His compositions span a wide range of genres, including music for dance, theater, film, string quartets, and electronic music. A recurring theme in his work is the exploration of the boundary between noise and sound.
Gregor Keienburg initially studied classical guitar at the University of Music and Dance in Cologne before turning to film music. As a composer, orchestrator, and producer, he has worked on numerous international film and television productions, including Patrick Melrose (directed by Edward Berger, Showtime 2018), When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit (directed by Caroline Link, 2019), Dune: Prophecy (HBO, 2024), and Conclave (directed by Edward Berger, 2024).
Future is a Lonely Place, SIFF 2021
Every You Every Me/Alle die Du Bist, Berlinale 2024
Isabelle von Canal | Costume Designer
Isabelle is a true master of her craft and has worked on well-known productions such as Alarm for Cobra 11 – Die Autobahnpolizei, the miniseries King of Stonks (2022), Future is a Lonely Place (Die Subunit ist ein einsamer Ort, 2021), and The Mongrels (Die Rüden, 2019).
I had the great pleasure of working with Isabelle on my previous film Future is a Lonely Place an incredible experience!
Her creativity and eye for detail not only bring the characters to life but also tell their layered stories through her impressive costume designs. We are confident that with her unique talent and passion, Isabelle will help shape the characters of Not Killing Lola in an unforgettable way.
Laura Janik | Lola
Laura Janik is a talented actress known for her versatility and dedication. With a comprehensive training background, including workshops with renowned professionals such as Sabine Schwedhelm and Phillis Dayanir, she has continually honed her craft. Her recent roles feature standout performances in projects like Ophidius (AT), Ikarus, and Emsinsel (AT).
With experience in both film and theater, including productions such as SOKO Köln and Der Zauberberg at Theater der Keller, Laura brings her creative energy and professionalism to her role as Lola in Not Killing Lola. Her versatility and strong commitment make her an exceptional actress who shines both on stage and on screen.
Laura Fernández | Alva
Laura Fernández is a bilingual actress (German and Spanish) who completed her comprehensive training at the International Academy of Film Acting (2020–2023). Her lead role in the short film Volver al Sur, showcased at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023, and her performances in TV productions such as Chabos (2024) and Soko Cologne (2024) highlight her versatility.
As Alva – the assassin – Laura brings extraordinary passion and depth to a pivotal role in Not Killing Lola, making her an indispensable asset to the project.
Sandra Förster | Margot
Sandra Jessica Förster was born in Frankfurt am Main. During her final year at the Mainz Acting School, she took on a permanent engagement at the Badische Landesbühne, where in 2016, she received the Förderpreis (Young Talent Award) for her work in children's and youth theater.
Afterwards, she moved to La Gomera for three years, where she learned Spanish and worked as a hip-hop and new style dance teacher.
Upon returning to Germany, she now performs at various theaters and frequently travels to England to further her training in Screen Combat, sword fighting, and motion capture.
In addition, she works as a voice-over scriptwriter and occasionally as a voice actress for various studios in Barcelona.
Paul Wollin | Manny
Paul Wollin is a German actor who captivates audiences in film, television, and theater with his intense presence and emotional depth. Born and raised in Germany, he completed his acting training at the renowned Ernst Busch Academy of Dramatic Arts in Berlin.
Since then, he has appeared in numerous national and international productions. His roles range from complex characters in dramas to powerful performances in genre films.
Paul is known for his versatile expressiveness, precise acting, and his ability to deeply explore the psychological layers of his characters.
With a strong sense of authenticity and a clear artistic vision, Paul Wollin continues to develop exciting projects in collaboration with acclaimed directors and innovative filmmakers.
Frank Stüdgens | Andreas
Frank Stüdgens was born in the Aachen region and is a trained actor, singer, and model. The foundation for his acting career was laid at a young age.
Today, he often appears in front of the camera alongside his partner Aleksandra Zamon, who is also an actress and singer. Together, they form the successful pop schlager duo Feuermond.
Currently, Frank Stüdgens plays the role of Andreas in Not Killing Lola. Andreas, who holds a key position, is confronted by Manny in an intense opening scene – a moment that vividly highlights the dangerous power dynamics of this world.
Bobby Conlon | Sami
Bobby will play Sami, a former soldier and martial arts expert who serves as Malik’s strong right hand. A complex character: reserved but relentless when it comes to defending what matters most.
We already worked together on Future is a Lonely Place, and it was fantastic. I can’t wait to see him bring the role of Sami to life!