Cillian Murphy, the acclaimed Irish actor known for his roles in films like “Inception” and “Dunkirk,” is set to open the Berlin International Film Festival with the world premiere of his latest drama, “Small Things Like These.” The film, based on Claire Keegan’s bestselling novel, sheds light on Ireland’s notorious laundries, which were used as prison camps for young women deemed “fallen” by society. Joining Murphy in the cast are Michelle Fairley from “Game of Thrones” and Emily Watson from “Chernobyl.”
The Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, is celebrating its 74th year and has appointed Kenyan-Mexican actor Lupita Nyong’o as the first black jury president. With issues such as the plight of women in Iran, the Gaza war, and the rise of far-right movements expected to be discussed and possibly protested during the festival, Nyong’o expressed her excitement about witnessing how artists are responding to the current world situation.
Known for its strong political focus, the Berlinale serves as a platform for films from around the world. Scott Roxborough from The Hollywood Reporter believes that this year’s festival will bring back the old spirit, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. He anticipates more excitement on the red carpet and at the European Film Market, where movie rights are bought and sold for global distribution.
In “Small Things Like These,” Cillian Murphy portrays a devoted father who uncovers shocking secrets about a convent in his town that is connected to one of Ireland’s biggest scandals: the Magdalene laundries. These laundries were run by the Roman Catholic church from the 1820s until the 1990s and housed “fallen women” who had become pregnant outside of marriage, as well as rape victims, orphans, prostitutes, and the disabled. The film explores themes of kindness, standing up against injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit.
The Berlinale lineup features a diverse range of films. Adam Sandler will present his latest Netflix release, “Spaceman,” a story about a lonely astronaut seeking help from an alien after becoming estranged from his wife, played by Carey Mulligan. Gael Garcia Bernal stars in “Another End,” which delves into a technology that allows the bereaved to reconnect with the dead. Renate Reinsve and Berenice Bejo, both Cannes best actress winners, co-star in “The Worst Person in the World” and “The Artist,” respectively.
Immigration drama “La Cocina,” starring Rooney Mara, promises to be a tragic and comic tribute to the often overlooked individuals who prepare our food in restaurants worldwide. Additionally, “Pepe” offers an intriguing glimpse into the inner life of a hippopotamus from Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar’s private menagerie.
One of the highlights of the festival will be the presentation of an Honorary Golden Bear for lifetime achievement to legendary director Martin Scorsese. Scorsese, who has been nominated for a record 10th time for a Best Director Oscar for his film “Killers of the Flower Moon,” will be recognized for his outstanding contributions to the world of cinema.
However, not all filmmakers have been able to attend the festival due to travel restrictions. Iranian directors Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha were unable to premiere their feminist competition entry, “My Favourite Cake,” as they were barred from traveling to Berlin.
In light of the global rise of far-right movements, the Berlinale will also shine a spotlight on films that explore Germany’s Nazi past. “Treasure,” featuring Stephen Fry and Lena Dunham, tells the story of a Holocaust survivor and his daughter returning to his Polish hometown and Auschwitz. Another German drama, “From Hilde, With Love,” starring Liv Lisa Fries, depicts the true story of a couple at the heart of the “Red Orchestra” resistance group in 1942.
As the Berlin International Film Festival kicks off, audiences can expect a diverse and thought-provoking lineup of films that tackle pressing social issues, celebrate cinematic achievements, and shed light on historical events. With Cillian Murphy leading the way, “Small Things Like These” promises to captivate audiences with its exploration of Ireland’s dark past and the resilience of those affected by it.
