Berlinale Issues Statement Following Political Backlash

Variety

by Alex Ritman

February 15, 2026

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The Berlin Film Festival has issued a strong statement in response to recent backlash over political comments made by attendees during the event. The controversy began when Wim Wenders, head of the jury, stated that filmmakers should avoid wading into politics, as it risks conflating art with partisan issues. His remarks sparked outrage on social media and led Indian author Arundhati Roy to withdraw from the festival in protest. Other high-profile attendees, including Michelle Yeoh and Neil Patrick Harris, also faced criticism for their responses to political questions during interviews. In her statement, Berlinale director Tricia Tuttle defended free speech and criticized the growing expectation that filmmakers must address every political issue they are asked about. She emphasized that artists are often unfairly judged—whether for not speaking out or for how they articulate their views. Tuttle highlighted the festival’s role in amplifying diverse voices, many of which tackle heavy topics like human rights, genocide, and social justice through their films. She also acknowledged the pressure on filmmakers to balance artistic expression with political commentary, a challenge that has only grown in today’s media landscape dominated by crisis-driven narratives. The Berlinale, Tuttle noted, is home to a wide range of perspectives, from politically charged documentaries to apolitical works aimed at preserving independent cinema spaces. Many films screened at the festival subtly address power dynamics or human struggles, serving as quiet yet powerful political acts. While some filmmakers focus on overtly political themes, others aim to connect audiences with universal human experiences through their work. Tuttle underscored that the festival’s core mission remains rooted in celebrating human dignity and fostering meaningful dialogue about art and culture. This controversy highlights a broader tension within the entertainment industry: the balance between artistic freedom and societal expectations for political engagement. As festivals like Berlinale become increasingly entangled in political debates, they face the challenge of maintaining

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Originally published on Variety on 2/15/2026