More than 80 filmmakers criticize Berlinale silence on Gaza

Wednesday 18 February 2026 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

More than 80 filmmakers criticize Berlinale silence on Gaza

More than 80 figures from the international film community, including Oscar winning actors Javier Bardem and Tilda Swinton, have signed an open letter condemning what they describe as the Berlin International Film Festival’s institutional silence on the war in Gaza and the alleged censorship of artists who have spoken out against Israel’s military actions.

The letter, first reported by Variety and coordinated by the collective Film Workers for Palestine, comes amid mounting controversy at the 76th Berlinale following comments made by jury president Wim Wenders during the festival’s opening press conference last week.

During the February 12 press conference, Wenders was asked about the German government’s position on Gaza. He responded that filmmakers should remain outside politics and said the festival was a space for creative work rather than political debate. The veteran German director added that while films can change how individuals see their own lives, no film has ever truly altered the viewpoint of a politician.

The signatories said they strongly reject Wenders’ assertion that cinema is the opposite of politics, arguing that artistic expression and political realities are inseparable. The letter calls on the Berlinale to meet what it describes as a moral responsibility by clearly opposing genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed by Israel against Palestinians. It notes that the festival has previously taken explicit positions on atrocities in Iran and Ukraine.

Among those who signed the statement are directors Mike Leigh, Adam McKay and Nan Goldin, along with actors Tatiana Maslany, Peter Mullan, Brian Cox and Alia Shawkat.

The controversy deepened when Indian author and Booker Prize winner Arundhati Roy announced her withdrawal from the festival. Roy had been scheduled to present a restored version of her 1989 film In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones. In a statement published by The Wire, she described the jury remarks as shocking and unacceptable, and warned that history would judge leading artists who fail to speak out.

Berlinale director Tricia Tuttle responded over the weekend with a public statement defending artists’ right not to take positions on political issues. She wrote that freedom of expression exists at the festival, but said filmmakers are increasingly expected to answer every political question put to them. According to Tuttle, artists face criticism whether they decline to comment or speak out in ways that some find disagreeable.

In an interview with Deadline, Tuttle said the current climate risks weakening the festival rather than strengthening it. She cautioned that if participants feel trapped by political questioning every time they speak, they may be discouraged from attending unless their primary purpose is to engage in political debate.

The 76th Berlin International Film Festival runs through February 22.