An open letter signed by over 80 artists, including actors Javier Bardem and Tilda Swinton, has publicly criticized the Berlinale film festival for what the signatories describe as a lack of engagement with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The letter, reported by Variety and Deadline, expresses “dismay” at the festival’s perceived silence on the situation. It comes after Berlinale jury president Wim Wenders stated the festival should “stay out of politics,” a position that has drawn sharp rebuke from the letter’s authors.
Critics argue that the Berlin International Film Festival has historically addressed political themes and issues, making the current stance a departure from precedent. The open letter suggests a potential inconsistency in the festival’s approach to politically charged subjects.
According to reporting from The Guardian, the signatories view the festival’s neutrality as a problematic position, given the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The letter does not specify what form of engagement the artists expect from the Berlinale, but it clearly indicates dissatisfaction with the current level of response.
The controversy has sparked debate about the role of international film festivals in addressing global conflicts and the balance between artistic freedom and political responsibility. DW.com reported that dozens of individuals have accused the festival of “silence” on the matter.
As of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Berlinale leadership has not issued a public response to the open letter. The festival is currently underway.
