Anthony Chen’s Berlinale Competition Entry ‘We Are All Strangers’ Sells to France With ‘Nouvelle Vague’ Distributor ARP (EXCLUSIVE)

Variety

by elskes

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Anthony Chen’s film *We Are All Strangers* has made history as the first Singaporean entry to compete at the Berlinale, marking a significant milestone for Southeast Asian cinema. The film, which wraps up Chen’s acclaimed *Growing Up* trilogy following *Ilo Ilo* and *Wet Season*, has been acquired by ARP Selection, a prominent French arthouse distributor known for its work on films like Richard Linklater’s *Nouvelle Vague*. This acquisition underscores the growing international recognition of Singaporean cinema and reinforces Chen’s reputation as one of Asia’s most notable filmmakers. The *We Are All Strangers* deal highlights the strategic importance of Berlinale as a platform for discovering new talent and fostering global distribution partnerships. Represented internationally by Paradise City Sales, the film is poised to reach audiences beyond its festival circuit, thanks in part to ARP Selection’s expertise in arthouse cinema. This move not only bolsters Chen’s career but also strengthens ties between Singaporean filmmakers and the French film industry. For readers interested in entertainment and global cinema trends, this acquisition matters as it signals a shift in the international film landscape. It showcases how local talent and unique storytelling can break into major festivals and secure distribution deals with prominent companies like ARP Selection. This success story is likely to inspire more filmmakers from diverse backgrounds to pursue their creative visions on the global stage.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/13/2026