81 Artists Call on Berlinale: “Do Not Stay Silent on Genocide”

The 76th edition of the Berlin Film Festival, which has faced criticism and boycott calls for allegedly supporting the genocide, began on February 12 amidst expected controversy.

The atmosphere of the festival was heavily influenced by Jury President Wim Wenders, who stated during a press conference on the first day that they "should not enter the field of politics" in response to a question. Wenders' remarks were addressed to many figures, including director Emin Alper, whose film is competing for the Golden Bear.

While these comments and the responses from filmmakers continue to draw heat, 81 figures—including actor Javier Bardem, a long-time supporter of Palestine; Tilda Swinton, who received the Berlinale Honorary Award last year; and Brian Cox, who has consistently spoken out against the genocide in Gaza—signed a letter calling on the Berlinale management to oppose the genocide in Gaza and state it publicly.

“Cinema and Politics Cannot Be Separated”

The letter reminds the Berlinale, which is supported by the German government, that it has previously made "clear statements" regarding atrocities in Iran and Ukraine. Addressing Jury President Wenders' claim that they should stay away from politics, the letter responded: "You cannot separate cinema and politics."

The statement continued: “We call on the Berlinale to fulfill its moral duty and state its clear opposition to the genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by Israel against Palestinians, and to completely end efforts to shield Israel from criticism and calls for accountability.”

A Call for Moral Responsibility

The signatories also echoed the sentiments of the Palestine Film Institute:

“As the Palestine Film Institute has stated, ‘We are appalled by the Berlinale’s institutional silence regarding the genocide against Palestinians and its unwillingness to defend the freedom of expression of filmmakers.’ Just as the festival has taken clear positions on atrocities in Iran and Ukraine in the past, we call on the Berlinale to fulfill its moral responsibility; to openly oppose the genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by Israel against Palestinians; and to end the stance that protects Israel from criticism.”