“Fashion With a Heritage” by Reiner Holzemer to premiere at Tribeca and Monte-Carlo festivals
ST. GALLEN, Switzerland — Akris has announced the world premiere of AKRIS – Fashion With a Heritage, a new documentary by filmmaker Reiner Holzemer, debuting June 9 in New York, followed by a screening at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on June 16. The film is also an official selection in the Features category of the 2025 Tribeca X Award Competition at the 24th Tribeca Festival.
Directed by Holzemer, the 90-minute film follows Akris creative director Albert Kriemler over a two-year period, offering rare access to his creative process. It marks the first time in four decades that Kriemler has allowed cameras inside the family-run atelier.
The film draws on previously unseen archival material to trace the house’s evolution across three generations—from founder Alice Kriemler-Schoch’s ambition to establish her own business, to her son Max and his wife Ute’s expansion into Paris, and finally to today’s leadership under Albert and his brother Peter, CEO and president.
Holzemer captures preparations for runway shows, a New York visit, and the opening of a museum exhibition in Zurich. Scenes include fittings with H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco, fabric sourcing, and a conversation with architect Sir David Chipperfield. The film also reflects on Kriemler’s collaborations with artists and architects including Imi Knoebel, Sou Fujimoto, and ballet director John Neumeier.
“Telling the story of Akris was more than documenting a fashion house – it was tracing the soul of a family. Through every archive photo, every fabric, and every conversation with Albert and Peter, I felt the weight of a century filled with courage, creativity, and quiet elegance. This film became a journey through time, where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand – just like the people behind this extraordinary legacy. This film is my attempt to honor not just what Akris creates, but what it stands for – grace, resilience, and the poetry of craftsmanship,” said Holzemer.
“Watching this documentary, you realize there’s more to fashion than just an image. An obsession with fabrics, pieces made to last – and above all, family and incredible, passionate people – these are the things that have always been at the heart of Akris,” added Kriemler.
Shot across cities including Paris, New York, Tokyo, Milan, Zurich, and St. Gallen, the film presents a reflective portrait of a brand that continues to operate with purpose, quiet confidence, and a focus on lasting design.
