Filmmakers Urged to Remain Apolitical
The 76th Berlin Film Festival commenced with a focus on pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Competition jury president Wim Wenders was at the forefront, addressing whether films can inspire political change. He asserted that while films can influence personal perspectives, they do not alter the views of politicians.
Filmmakers Urged to Remain Apolitical
Wenders emphasized the importance of maintaining an apolitical stance in filmmaking. He stated, “We have to stay out of politics because if we make movies that are dedicatedly political, we enter the field of politics.” He believes filmmakers can serve as a counterbalance to political agendas, enriching public discourse without taking sides.
Jury Composition and Perspectives
Wenders leads a diverse jury comprised of talented filmmakers from around the globe, including:
- Reinaldo Marcus Green (USA) – Known for “King Richard”
- Hikari (Japan) – Director of “Rental Family”
- Ewa Puszczyńska (Poland) – Producer of “The Zone of Interest”
- Min Bahadur Bham (Nepal) – Director of “Shambala”
- Bae Doona (South Korea) – Renowned actress
- Shivendra Singh Dungarpur (India) – Director-producer of “Celluloid Man”
During a press conference, the jury addressed questions about the German government’s support for Israel in light of the Gaza crisis. Puszczyńska described such inquiries as “unfair,” noting that filmmakers aim to provoke thought but should not be held accountable for political stances. She highlighted the complexity of global conflicts and the need for broader discussions beyond just the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
Technical Issues during the Press Conference
The press conference encountered technical difficulties, leading to speculation about intentional interruption. The Berlinale later clarified that there were genuine issues with the streaming service and promised a complete recording would be available on their official platform and YouTube.
The Festival’s Unique Offerings
Wenders, a veteran of the Berlinale and an honorary Golden Bear recipient in 2015, praised the festival for its ability to showcase varied perspectives from around the world. He remarked, “You can be sure you’ll see more facets of the world than in any other festival. That’s their great strength.”
The Berlin Film Festival will run from February 16 to 22, 2026, kicking off with the premiere of Shahrbanoo Sadat’s film “No Good Men.” As filmmakers come together, the call to remain apolitical resonates, urging them to focus on storytelling that transcends political divides.
