The Berlin Film Festival started on Thursday with a focus on political issues, including the war in Gaza. Wim Wenders, the jury president, answered questions about the role of films in politics.
Wenders, a well-known German director, stated that “movies can change the world,” but not directly in politics. He suggested that films help shape people’s ideas about their lives, reflecting a gap between ordinary people’s desires and government actions.
The jury, which includes directors and producers from various countries, was asked about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Germany’s support for Israel, given that the government funds much of the festival. Ewa Puszczy?ska, a jury member, described the question as “a bit unfair.” She explained that while the jury aims to provoke thought among viewers, they cannot control how individuals choose to support either side.
Wenders added that filmmakers should avoid direct political involvement. He believes their work should serve the public, rather than act like politicians.
Technical difficulties disrupted the livestream of the press conference during this discussion, leading to questions about whether it was intentional. However, the Berlinale later explained the issues and stated that a full recording would be available online soon.
The festival runs until February 22, beginning with the premiere of “No Good Men” by Shahrbanoo Sadat.
Vocabulary List:
- political /pəˈlɪt.ɪ.kəl/ (adjective): Relating to the government or public affairs of a country.
- reflecting /rɪˈflɛk.tɪŋ/ (verb): Showing or expressing something; to think carefully or deeply about something.
- provoking /prəˈvoʊ.kɪŋ/ (verb): Causing a reaction or feeling.
- disrupted /dɪsˈrʌptɪd/ (verb): Interrupted or disturbed in a way that prevents something from continuing normally.
- funds /fʌndz/ (noun): Monetary resources available for spending or investment.
- intentional /ɪnˈtɛn.ʃən.əl/ (adjective): Done on purpose; deliberate.
How much do you know?
