Addressing the Berlinale controversy, representatives from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) were not invited to the rest of the Berlin Film Festival’s opening events and premieres, which begin next week. The festival’s two co-directors, Mariette Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian, have issued a formal address amid ongoing debates inside the cultural world and the general public about the possible presence of AfD members at the event. The festival, renowned for showcasing films with strong political commentary, now faces a pivotal moment surrounding its own openness and values.
The duo has backtracked after defending the initial invitation of political figures from the AfD, noting that invitations were extended to representatives across the political spectrum, including the party that currently holds seats in both the federal parliament and the Berlin regional assembly. They stated that they would reaffirm Berlinale’s commitment to diversity and human rights through a written note, clarifying the festival’s stance for attendees and participants alike.
Meeting with neo-Nazis
The AfD stands as a major force in national voting intentions and holds particular strength in eastern Germany. Public statements by several of its members linked to meetings with neo-Nazis and to deportation campaigns have sparked large demonstrations nationwide. The party is often excluded by many other political groups at both national and regional levels, reflecting a broader pattern of political isolation in many circles.
As Berlin prepares to screen the film Little Things Like That on the festival’s opening night, directed by Tim Mielants and featuring a notable performance by Cillian Murphy, the Berlinale marks the final edition under the leadership of Rissenbeek and Chatrian. After four years characterized by a strong emphasis on auteur cinema, with a more understated red carpet and a measured number of premieres compared with some other major festivals, the festival will transition to leadership by Briton Tricia Tuttle. The shift signals a renewed effort to energize the event and attract broader international attention, particularly from audiences in Canada and the United States who frequently follow European cinema closely.