Israeli Director Tom Shoval Backs Berlin Festival Boss Amid Controversy

Hollywood Reporter

by Scott Roxborough

February 26, 2026

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Israeli director Tom Shoval has joined a growing number of film industry figures in defending Berlin Film Festival head Tricia Tuttle amid a controversy that threatens her position. Shoval, whose documentary *A Letter to David* screened at last year’s festival under Tuttle’s leadership, expressed strong support for the beleaguered director, stating she is “not the one who should be under fire.” The backlash against Tuttle stems from criticism of her handling of politically charged remarks made by filmmakers during the closing gala, including a sharp critique of Israel and Germany. Following media reports suggesting Tuttle could face termination, Germany’s culture minister convened a crisis meeting with festival officials to discuss the event's future direction. Tuttle, who has served as Berlinale director since 2018, has faced mounting pressure after Syrian-Palestinian director Abdallah al-Khatib used his acceptance speech for *Chronicles From the Siege* to accuse Israel and Germany of complicity in Palestinian suffering. Conservative German media also criticized her for posing with al-Khatib’s film crew, some of whom wore keffiyeh scarves or held Palestinian flags. Despite these criticisms, Tuttle has been praised by many in the industry for fostering an inclusive platform where diverse voices can be heard without fear of censorship. Shoval emphasized Tuttle’s integrity and commitment to artistic freedom, recalling how she supported his film *A Letter to David*, which explores the abduction of actor David Cunio by Hamas. He noted her ability to create a safe space for difficult conversations about art and politics. Nearly 700 filmmakers, including prominent Hollywood names like Tilda Swinton and Sean Baker, have signed a petition backing Tuttle, while institutions such as the German Film Academy and the Jerusalem International Film Festival have also expressed support. The controversy highlights broader

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/26/2026