The 76th edition of the Berlinale returns to the German capital with an international film selection, high-profile premieres and one of the industry’s most influential markets.The Berlin International Film Festival launches its 76th edition on February 12, transforming the German capital into a global meeting point for filmmakers, actors, producers and cinema enthusiasts. Over eleven days, Berlin will host world premieres, red-carpet events and industry discussions that shape the direction of the year in film.The event opens with the premiere of “No Good Men,” setting the tone for a program that combines artistic experimentation with socially engaged storytelling.International Guests and Special HonorsA wide range of international performers and filmmakers are expected to attend this year’s edition to present new projects and participate in festival events.Among the most talked-about appearances is pop artist Charli XCX, who is promoting her latest screen project. Actors including Pamela Anderson, Amanda Seyfried, Sandra Hüller, Juliette Binoche, Ethan Hawke, Neil Patrick Harris, Bella Ramsey, Sam Rockwell, Juno Temple, Zazie Beetz, Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan are also anticipated on the red carpet.Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh will receive the Honorary Golden Bear for lifetime achievement during the opening ceremony. Director Chloé Zhao is also scheduled to attend and present an award to composer Max Richter.Why the Berlinale MattersThe Berlin Film Festival is widely regarded as one of the three most influential film events globally, alongside Cannes and Venice. Established in 1951, the festival developed a reputation for highlighting films that explore political, social and cultural themes.Beyond its public screenings, the Berlinale hosts one of the world’s leading film markets. Industry professionals from around 140 countries gather annually to buy, sell and promote film and television content. As the first major European market of the year, it often signals broader industry trends.Films Competing for the Golden BearThis year, 22 films are in contention for the festival’s top award, the Golden Bear. The international jury, chaired by acclaimed German filmmaker Wim Wenders, will select the winner.The competition titles include:A New Dawn – Yoshitoshi ShinomiyaAt the Sea – Kornél MundruczóIn a Whisper – Leyla BouzidDao – Alain GomisDust – Anke BlondeHome Stories – Eva TrobischEverybody Digs Bill Evans – Grant GeeYellow Letters – İlker ÇatakJosephine – Beth de AraujoSalvation – Emin AlperMy Wife Cries – Angela SchanelecFlies – Fernando EimbckeNina Roza – Geneviève Dulude-de CellesQueen at Sea – Lance HammerRose – Markus SchleinzerRosebush Pruning – Karim AïnouzSoumsoum, the Night of the Stars – Mahamat-Saleh HarounThe Loneliest Man in Town – Tizza Covi & Rainer FrimmelWolfram – Warwick ThorntonWe Are All Strangers – Anthony ChenYo (Love Is a Rebellious Bird) – Anna Fitch & Banker WhiteNightborn – Hanna BergholmSpecial Screenings and Series PremieresOutside the main competition, the Berlinale Special section features high-profile productions presented out of award contention.Highlights include “The Blood Countess,” starring Isabelle Huppert, the futuristic drama “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die,” featuring Sam Rockwell, and the period film “The Weight,” led by Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe.The program also includes documentaries such as “The Ballad of Judas Priest,” chronicling the legacy of the iconic heavy metal band, and “Who Killed Alex Odeh?” examining a 1985 political assassination case.In addition, two television productions will debut: an adaptation of Isabel Allende’s “The House of the Spirits” and a new interpretation of William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies.”Venue and Public AccessThe festival runs from February 12 to February 22, centered around Potsdamer Platz. The Theater am Potsdamer Platz once again serves as the iconic Berlinale Palast, hosting premieres and award ceremonies.Unlike some other major festivals, the Berlinale emphasizes public participation. Screenings are held not only in central venues but also in arthouse cinemas across Berlin, broadening access for local audiences. Discounted ticket programs are available for younger viewers, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to cultural accessibility.As the 76th edition unfolds, the Berlin Film Festival continues to balance artistic innovation, political engagement and industry influence — maintaining its position as a key event on the global cinema calendar. Post navigationWhat Truly Attracts Us: The Qualities That Matter More Than Looks
The 76th edition of the Berlinale returns to the German capital with an international film selection, high-profile premieres and one of the industry’s most influential markets.The Berlin International Film Festival launches its 76th edition on February 12, transforming the German capital into a global meeting point for filmmakers, actors, producers and cinema enthusiasts. Over eleven days, Berlin will host world premieres, red-carpet events and industry discussions that shape the direction of the year in film.The event opens with the premiere of “No Good Men,” setting the tone for a program that combines artistic experimentation with socially engaged storytelling.International Guests and Special HonorsA wide range of international performers and filmmakers are expected to attend this year’s edition to present new projects and participate in festival events.Among the most talked-about appearances is pop artist Charli XCX, who is promoting her latest screen project. Actors including Pamela Anderson, Amanda Seyfried, Sandra Hüller, Juliette Binoche, Ethan Hawke, Neil Patrick Harris, Bella Ramsey, Sam Rockwell, Juno Temple, Zazie Beetz, Channing Tatum and Gemma Chan are also anticipated on the red carpet.Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh will receive the Honorary Golden Bear for lifetime achievement during the opening ceremony. Director Chloé Zhao is also scheduled to attend and present an award to composer Max Richter.Why the Berlinale MattersThe Berlin Film Festival is widely regarded as one of the three most influential film events globally, alongside Cannes and Venice. Established in 1951, the festival developed a reputation for highlighting films that explore political, social and cultural themes.Beyond its public screenings, the Berlinale hosts one of the world’s leading film markets. Industry professionals from around 140 countries gather annually to buy, sell and promote film and television content. As the first major European market of the year, it often signals broader industry trends.Films Competing for the Golden BearThis year, 22 films are in contention for the festival’s top award, the Golden Bear. The international jury, chaired by acclaimed German filmmaker Wim Wenders, will select the winner.The competition titles include:A New Dawn – Yoshitoshi ShinomiyaAt the Sea – Kornél MundruczóIn a Whisper – Leyla BouzidDao – Alain GomisDust – Anke BlondeHome Stories – Eva TrobischEverybody Digs Bill Evans – Grant GeeYellow Letters – İlker ÇatakJosephine – Beth de AraujoSalvation – Emin AlperMy Wife Cries – Angela SchanelecFlies – Fernando EimbckeNina Roza – Geneviève Dulude-de CellesQueen at Sea – Lance HammerRose – Markus SchleinzerRosebush Pruning – Karim AïnouzSoumsoum, the Night of the Stars – Mahamat-Saleh HarounThe Loneliest Man in Town – Tizza Covi & Rainer FrimmelWolfram – Warwick ThorntonWe Are All Strangers – Anthony ChenYo (Love Is a Rebellious Bird) – Anna Fitch & Banker WhiteNightborn – Hanna BergholmSpecial Screenings and Series PremieresOutside the main competition, the Berlinale Special section features high-profile productions presented out of award contention.Highlights include “The Blood Countess,” starring Isabelle Huppert, the futuristic drama “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die,” featuring Sam Rockwell, and the period film “The Weight,” led by Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe.The program also includes documentaries such as “The Ballad of Judas Priest,” chronicling the legacy of the iconic heavy metal band, and “Who Killed Alex Odeh?” examining a 1985 political assassination case.In addition, two television productions will debut: an adaptation of Isabel Allende’s “The House of the Spirits” and a new interpretation of William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies.”Venue and Public AccessThe festival runs from February 12 to February 22, centered around Potsdamer Platz. The Theater am Potsdamer Platz once again serves as the iconic Berlinale Palast, hosting premieres and award ceremonies.Unlike some other major festivals, the Berlinale emphasizes public participation. Screenings are held not only in central venues but also in arthouse cinemas across Berlin, broadening access for local audiences. Discounted ticket programs are available for younger viewers, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to cultural accessibility.As the 76th edition unfolds, the Berlin Film Festival continues to balance artistic innovation, political engagement and industry influence — maintaining its position as a key event on the global cinema calendar.