Berlinale opens
The Berlinale begins, accompanied by a demonstration of solidarity for an Israeli hostage. The actor Tilda Swinton is honoured for her life’s work.
Berlin (dpa/d.de) - The opening of the Berlinale is once again dominated by political issues. On the red carpet, the festival’s new director, Tricia Tuttle, paid tribute to the Israeli hostage David Cunio. Other celebrities also declared their solidarity with the Israeli actor.
The lifetime achievement award for the actor Tilda Swinton (photo) lent a little glamour to the opening gala. However, the Oscar winner also used her acceptance speech to address political topics.
“The inhumane is being perpetrated on our watch,” she declared. “I’m here to name it without hesitation or doubt in my mind.”
Following the opening gala, the Berlinale began with a screening of “The Light” by German director Tom Tykwer. The festival will end on 23 February.