Filmmakers Karim Aïnouz and Eliza Capai express their disbelief at the Berlin Festival jury's decision to distance itself from political statements, with Aïnouz critiquing jury president Wim Wenders for his remarks.
The Berlin International Film Festival sparked controversy when its jury, led by president Wim Wenders, declared a stance against political statements in cinema. This comment drew a strong reaction from Brazilian directors participating in the festival, including Karim Aïnouz, whose film 'Rosebush Pruning' is competing for the prestigious Golden Bear award. Aïnouz, along with fellow filmmaker Eliza Capai, voiced their astonishment at the jury's approach, as they believe that cinema inherently involves political discourse.
Aïnouz criticized Wenders for his remarks, stating that it contradicts the essence of filmmaking, which often challenges power structures and societal issues. In response to questions regarding the German government's position on Gaza, Wenders had suggested that filmmakers should not be politicized, a viewpoint that Aïnouz vehemently disagrees with. He stresses that storytelling often embodies political narratives by addressing injustice and social questions, thus transcending mere entertainment.
The debate at the Berlinale reflects a broader tension in the film industry regarding the role of art in commentating on current events and political landscapes. As filmmakers like Aïnouz advocate for cinema as a platform for political engagement, the festival serves as a critical stage for discussing these ideas, especially in light of contemporary global issues. This controversy not only outlines differing perspectives on artistic expression but also raises questions about the responsibilities of artists in society and their engagement with pressing political matters.
