Young Jesse Owens (Stephan James) becomes a track and field sensation while attending the Ohio State University in the early 1930s. With guidance from coach Larry Snyder (Jason Sudeikis), the black runner gains national recognition for breaking numerous records. After heated debates, the United States decides not to boycott the Olympics in Nazi Germany. Overcoming racism at home and abroad, Owens seizes the opportunity to show Berlin and the world that he’s the fastest man alive.

Stephen Hopkin’s RACE (2016, 134 min) is a long overdue film about Jesse Owens with excellent performances and a thoughtful portrayal of documentarian/propagandist Leni Riefenstahl. A polarizing figure deserving of her own biopic, Riefenstahl is played with panache and excitement by Carice van Houten. She strides through the Olympic stadium with her army of 40 cameramen, defying direct orders from Hitler’s propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels.

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From April to June, Meta screens the best films set in Germany’s capital, from the 1920s up until today. Sunday’s Berlin Film Series at Meta House is presented by “Berlin Bar” @ Meta House. All films are screened in English language versions and / or with English subtitles.