Norwegian drama Dreams won the Golden Bear at the 75th Berlin Film Festival, while Rose Byrne received the Best Performance award for her role in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. The festival showcased a strong focus on women's stories, with political undertones subtly woven into the proceedings.
At the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, Norwegian drama Dreams took home the Golden Bear on Saturday, with Australian actress Rose Byrne earning the Best Performance award. Both films, which delve into women’s experiences, stood out amid a ceremony that balanced politics with the celebration of cinema. The Berlin festivities unfolded as Germany prepared for elections and Donald Trump began his second term as U.S. president, creating a backdrop of political tension. While some filmmakers used the occasion to make pointed political remarks, the focus remained on the films themselves.
Wildest dreams
Dreams, directed by Dag Johan Haugerud, tells the story of Johanne, a 17-year-old girl who develops a romantic interest in her female teacher. Haugerud, speaking from the stage, called the win “beyond my wildest dreams” as he accepted the Golden Bear. The film, praised for its touching drama and subtle humor, is the third installment in Haugerud's trilogy, following Sex and Love.
Byrne, renowned for her roles in Damages and the X-Men series, earned acclaim for her portrayal of an overworked therapist and mother in If I Had Legs I’d Kick You, directed by Mary Bronstein. Reflecting on her win at Berlin, Byrne expressed gratitude, calling it an honor to be part of the festival.
If I Had Legs I’d Kick You was one of the most star-studded entries this year, featuring Conan O’Brien and rapper A$AP Rocky in supporting roles. The 19 films competing in the official selection showcased a marked focus on women’s stories, both behind and in front of the camera. Jury president Todd Haynes noted how many films highlighted women’s experiences and praised their importance in the festival lineup. Though political undertones were present, the festival did not veer into controversy, with new festival director Tricia Tuttle aiming to avoid the heated political debates.
In a nod to global concerns, Canadian-Tunisian director Meryam Joobeur, a member of the jury for the Panorama prize, emphasized the importance of remembering children in times of conflict, condemning the disregard for innocent lives caught in political struggles. Romanian director Radu Jude, awarded Best Screenplay, made his own political sharp comments.
Other notable winners included Irish actor Andrew Scott, who was awarded Best Supporting Actor for his role in Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon. Meanwhile, The Blue Trail, a Brazilian film about the plight of the elderly in confinement camps, won the Silver Bear.
With AFP
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