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As Germany prepares for its crucial general elections, the 75th edition of the Berlinale International Film Festival has come to a close, offering a more subdued atmosphere than last year’s controversial event. With fewer political controversies clouding the festivities, the 2025 Berlinale highlighted a series of impressive films that captivated audiences while still making a bold statement on contemporary issues.

Golden Bear and Other Major Wins

The most prestigious award of the festival, the Golden Bear for Best Film, went to Drømmer (Dreams (Sex Love)), a thought-provoking queer coming-of-age drama by Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud. The film explores a teenage girl’s complex and deepening emotions as she grapples with a forbidden love for her teacher. Haugerud’s film resonated deeply with the Berlinale audience, drawing praise for its raw exploration of love, identity, and societal boundaries.

The Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize went to O último azul (The Blue Trail), a Brazilian dystopian drama directed by Gabriela Amaral Almeida. Set in a bleak future, the film depicts a society where ageism runs rampant, and older individuals are discarded by a culture obsessed with youth. The powerful narrative struck a chord with many, highlighting the fragility of age and the societal tendency to marginalize the elderly.

The festival also celebrated individual achievements, with the Best Director award going to Huo Meng for his compelling film Living The Land. The film offers a poignant look at the lives of rural communities and their connection to the land they work. Meng’s nuanced direction skillfully balanced the personal and political, reflecting on the broader impact of societal forces on individuals.

In the acting categories, Rose Byrne took home the Best Lead Performance award for her role in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. The Australian actress delivered a gripping portrayal of a woman trapped in an abusive relationship, earning critical acclaim for her emotional depth and vulnerability. Her performance has sparked discussions on the complexities of domestic abuse and the strength it takes to break free from toxic relationships.

Radu Jude won the Best Screenplay award for Kontinental ’25, a darkly comedic look at the collapse of European politics through the eyes of an idealistic young woman. Jude’s script, filled with sharp wit and biting social commentary, impressed critics and audiences alike, capturing the growing political tensions in Europe.

A Festival Amid Political Tension

The Berlinale has long been known for its ability to offer a platform for films that tackle difficult social, political, and cultural issues. This year, however, the festival took on a more introspective tone, focusing on art and creativity rather than engaging in direct political clashes.

Radu Jude, in his acceptance speech for Best Screenplay, expressed his concerns about the rise of far-right politics in Europe, specifically citing Germany’s right-wing party, the AfD, in the lead-up to the country’s elections. His words were a stark reminder of the growing political polarization seen across Europe and a call to action for filmmakers and audiences to reflect on the impact of such movements on society.

Despite these undercurrents of political commentary, Berlinale director Tricia Tuttle kept the festival relatively free from controversy. Tuttle’s commitment to prioritizing art over politics allowed the festival to showcase a wide range of films from diverse filmmakers. The result was a lineup that felt stronger and more unified than last year’s edition, which had been marred by larger political discussions and protests.

The 2025 festival also faced logistical challenges, most notably a series of transport strikes that threatened to disrupt the event’s operations. Despite this, the Berlinale managed to sell 330,000 tickets, a testament to the festival’s enduring appeal. Audiences braved the transportation disruptions to attend screenings and participate in discussions, demonstrating their unwavering support for the art of cinema.

Looking Ahead to Berlinale 2026

As the festival wrapped up, all eyes were on Germany’s political future and the potential impact it could have on future editions of the Berlinale. With political polarization on the rise and the country grappling with questions about its leadership, the 2026 festival is expected to see a continued focus on films that examine these societal shifts.

Many are wondering whether future Berlinale editions will see more direct confrontations between filmmakers and political issues. As the global political landscape continues to evolve, the role of the arts in addressing these challenges will become even more important. Berlinale 2025 may have taken a step back from the overtly political tone of previous years, but the themes explored in the films this year have left an indelible mark on both audiences and critics alike.

The 75th Berlinale demonstrated that, despite external pressures, the festival’s core mission remains unchanged: to champion cinema as a powerful medium for exploring complex issues and pushing boundaries. The winners of this year’s festival have shown that even in times of political and societal uncertainty, art can offer a voice for those seeking to make sense of an ever-changing world.

With the global political stage in flux, the Berlinale remains a vital venue for fostering dialogue and reflection through the lens of cinema. As Germany prepares to make significant decisions in its general elections, the themes of love, identity, ageism, and societal change explored at this year’s Berlinale offer a timely reminder of the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world.

For more updates on the Berlinale and international film events, visit Financial Mirror.