Israeli documentarian Yuval Abraham's acceptance speech for 'No Other Land' at the Berlin International Film Festival has been labeled as antisemitic by the Kan public broadcaster, sparking controversy over the mention of the occupation. The creators of the documentary faced criticism upon their return to Israel, with any reference to the occupation being deemed as antisemitic by some.
Mati Diop's documentary "Dahomey" wins the Golden Bear for best film at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, making it only the second African film to win the top prize at Berlin. The film explores the return of plundered royal treasures from Paris to Benin and features a direct political statement from Diop. Other winners include Sebastian Stan for best leading performance and Emily Watson for best supporting actor, with a special documentary prize going to "No Other Land," which addresses the political debate surrounding the war in Gaza.
Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong'o has made history by becoming the first black head of the Berlin International Film Festival jury, where she will lead the selection of winning films in the Golden and Silver Bear categories. The event, known as Berlinale, has faced criticism for lacking diversity, and Nyong'o's appointment is seen as a significant step towards addressing this issue. The festival's directors praised Nyong'o for embodying what they value in cinema, and the event will run until 25 February, with three African entries among the 20 films competing for the top prize.
Cillian Murphy will open the Berlin International Film Festival with "Small Things Like These", a drama about Ireland's Magdalene laundries, while Lupita Nyong'o serves as the first black jury president. The festival will feature films addressing political and social issues, with Martin Scorsese receiving an Honorary Golden Bear for lifetime achievement. Notable entries include "Spaceman" starring Adam Sandler, "La Cocina" with Rooney Mara, and "Pepe" imagining the life of a hippopotamus from Pablo Escobar's menagerie.
The 74th Berlin International Film Festival has announced its full lineup, featuring films competing for the Golden and Silver Bears in both the competition and encounters sections. Notable entries include La Cocina, From Hilde With Love, Suspended Time, and A Traveler’s Needs, with renowned directors such as Alonso Ruizpalacios, Andreas Dresen, Olivier Assayas, and Hong Sang-soo presenting their latest works. The festival also emphasized its commitment to fostering empathy and understanding through film, addressing the ongoing war in Gaza and promoting intercultural understanding.
