On January 14, 2026, the exciting lineup for the Panorama section of the Berlinale was officially announced, and it promises to be a remarkable showcase. The opening film, "Only Rebels Win," directed by Danielle Arbid and featuring the talented Hiam Abbass, sets the stage for what is sure to be an intriguing program. This year, a total of 37 films from 36 different countries will grace the screens, including fresh works from notable directors such as Hong Sangsoo, Joaquín del Paso, André Novais Oliveira, Elle Sofe Sara, Sarmad Sultan Khoosat, Tobias Nölle, Alisa Kovalenko, Marcelo Martinessi, Mahnaz Mohammadi, and Aidan Zamiri. Among the diverse cast appearing in these films are well-known stars like Charli xcx, Alexander Skarsgård, Jannis Niewöhner, Sophie Okonedo, Mercedes Cabral, Valerie Pachner, Fiona Shaw, Siri Hustvedt, and Douglas Gordon.
Section head Michael Stütz comments on the year’s offerings, saying, "This year’s program presents a contrast that is visually striking and emotionally rich. It features films that possess a strong sense of composition and depth, allowing them to profoundly influence our understanding of the world beyond the cinema." He emphasizes how film serves as a powerful medium for exploring boundaries, narrative, and expressions of desire and autonomy.
Several entries delve into themes of love, acting as reflective mirrors of our societal dynamics and current norms. Films such as Sarmad Sultan Khoosat’s "Lali" and Ian de la Rosa’s "Iván & Hadoum," alongside Anna Roller’s adaptation of Leif Randt’s "Allegro Pastell," all portray love stories that act as commentaries on contemporary life. Additionally, André Novais Oliveira’s "Se eu fosse vivo... vivia" illustrates what could be regarded as the quintessential expression of eternal love between two individuals.
The urgent issues of migration, survival struggles, and corrupt antagonists anchor the narratives of Joaquín del Paso’s "El jardín que soñamos" and the collaborative work of Dominik Locher and Honeylyn Joy Alipio titled "Enjoy Your Stay." These films captivate audiences with their innovative storytelling and impressive performances. In his latest entry, "Geunyeoga doraon nal," acclaimed director Hong Sangsoo provides a thoughtful exploration of the acting profession itself.
Strong feminist viewpoints shine through in the works of Sámi choreographer Elle Sofe Sara with her groundbreaking debut "Árru," Iranian filmmaker and activist Mahnaz Mohammadi in her poignant drama "Roya," and Olive Nwosu’s ambitious film "Lady." Furthermore, pop icon Charli xcx captivates in Aidan Zamiri’s "The Moment," which cleverly combines elements of mockumentary, a feminist statement of empowerment, and an ironic commentary on the music industry.
This year's Panorama also boasts a notable documentary presence, skillfully addressing pressing global issues through poetic visuals. The films present various perspectives on storytelling and how narratives are constructed on screen. Yulia Lokshina's "Im Umkreis des Paradieses" and the collaborative effort of Tobias Nölle and Loran Bonnardot in "Tristan Forever" explore utopian visions within self-imposed seclusion, set against the contrasting backdrops of Paraguay and the remote island of Tristan da Cunha, each embodying divergent realities caught between a yearning for solitude and the quest for control.
Directors Tawfik Sabouni with "The Other Side of the Sun," along with Alisa Kovalenko and Marysia Nikitiuk in "Traces," create reflective spaces where their characters confront their traumas and the overarching impacts of war, violence, and abuse pervasive in society today.
The program also highlights two documentary portraits that celebrate influential contemporary artists: "Siri Hustvedt – Dance Around the Self" and "Douglas Gordon" by Douglas Gordon, which stand out distinctly from one another.
Queer cinema continues to assert its significant place in this year's lineup. "Two Mountains Weighing Down My Chest" by Viv Li and "La Face cachée de la Terre" by Arnaud Alain provide compelling documentary insights into contemporary queer experiences. Meanwhile, both "The Education of Jane Cumming" by Sophie Heldman and "Narciso" by Marcelo Martinessi reflect upon historical queer realities, enriching the discourse of queer history.
As the Berlinale gears up for a vibrant edition celebrating queer cinema, it will also commemorate the 40th anniversary of the TEDDY AWARD. The festivities are set to take place at the Volksbühne Berlin on February 20, 2026, with more information about the TEDDY 40 (as detailed in the press release dated January 9) and the complementary program, WILD AT HEART, to be announced shortly.
Additionally, the 28th Panorama Audience Award, in collaboration with radioeins and rbb television, will be presented on February 22 at the Zoo Palast to honor the feature film and documentary that have captivated audiences the most.
For those interested in exploring the full range of films featured in the 2026 Panorama, a comprehensive list is available on the Berlinale website.
