In “The Light,” Tykwer weaves together a blend of drama, political and social themes, musical elements, and a narrative focused on migration—an issue he did not anticipate would be so pertinent when he began work on the film three years ago. He expressed that the timing of the film’s release coinciding with the elections gives it extra weight, especially as migration remains a heated topic within political discussions. Tykwer emphasized his belief in the importance of the film’s message under current circumstances.
The festival will showcase 19 films vying for the Golden Bear award, with the winner to be announced during the gala event on February 22.
Significance of Politics
The national election for Germany is scheduled for February 23, coinciding with the final day of the Berlinale. This election is taking place earlier than expected after a breakdown of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government, sparked by disagreements over economic revitalization strategies. Migration has become a key issue in campaign discussions, especially with the rising influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany party, which is on track to achieve its best election results to date.
During a press conference with this year’s Berlinale international jury, led by American filmmaker Todd Haynes, politics was a recurring theme. Despite prevailing global pessimism regarding political matters, there was an overarching optimism concerning the potential of film to address these issues. Haynes remarked that the Berlinale has long embraced challenging narratives and political dialogue through cinema, adding that present global conditions have intensified this necessity.
Nabil Ayouch, a Franco-Moroccan director and jury member, emphasized the need for potent artistic expressions in these turbulent times, advocating for radical choices in filmmaking to make impactful statements.
Five Must-See Films
“Blue Moon” is among the highlights, taking place during the opening of the musical “Oklahoma!” and marking Richard Linklater’s return to the Berlinale since “Boyhood” premiered in 2014. The film features Ethan Hawke and Margaret Qualley and is competing for the Golden Bear award.
Another contender, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” stars Rose Byrne alongside A$AP Rocky and Conan O’Brien. Directed by Mary Bronstein, this dramedy presents the challenges faced by a fatigued mother amid a cast of unhelpful friends, family, and colleagues. The film has garnered attention after its premiere at Sundance.
In “Dreams,” Jessica Chastain collaborates with Mexican director Michel Franco to explore the life of a young Mexican ballet dancer, portrayed by real dancer Isaac Hernández. Chastain plays a wealthy socialite confronting her lover’s unauthorized move to San Francisco to chase their dancing dreams.
Additionally, “Hot Milk,” featuring Emma Mackey and Vicky Krieps, marks the directorial debut of playwright Rebecca Lenkiewicz. The story, adapted from Deborah Levy’s novel, follows a daughter seeking a healer for her mother in a coastal Spanish town, where she encounters a free-spirited traveler.
Lastly, Marion Cotillard stars in “The Ice Tower,” a 1970s French fantasy directed by Lucile Hadžihalilovi?, portraying an actress filming a version of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Snow Queen.”
A Fan Frenzy
While the festival has political undercurrents, many attendees may be drawn to the opportunity to see their favorite stars in person. Timothée Chalamet is anticipated to generate excitement on the red carpet during the German premiere of his acclaimed biopic “A Complete Unknown” on Friday, coinciding with his Oscar nomination for best actor due to his portrayal of Bob Dylan.
Jacob Elordi is expected to attract considerable attention with the debut of his new series “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” during the festival.
On Saturday, Justin Kurzel’s highly awaited dramatic retelling of a World War II hero’s harrowing experiences in a Japanese POW camp will make its red carpet debut. Robert Pattinson is also scheduled to attend a special screening of Bong Joon-Ho’s much-anticipated follow-up to “Parasite,” titled “Mickey 17,” a sci-fi comedy where Pattinson plays a space explorer, which is sure to draw in fans eager to brave Berlin’s chilly February weather.
