The Berlinale 2026, scheduled from February 12 to 22, has announced exciting additions to its lineup, featuring the Berlinale Special, Panorama, and Generation sections. Among the standout entries is the world premiere of “The Day She Returns,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Hong Sangsoo. This film stars Song Sunmi, Cho Yunhee, and Park Miso and revolves around an actress who, after completing the shoot of an independent film, struggles to recall her interviews during acting class.
Other notable films featured in the festival include “Plan contraplan” by Radu Jude and Adrian Cioflâncă, a short film that critiques historical narratives, and “The Blood Countess,” a new film directed by Ulrike Ottinger featuring Isabelle Huppert. Gabe Klinger’s “Isabel” also marks its world premiere, alongside “Mouse,” directed by Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson, which explores the complicated dynamics of friendship and loss among high school seniors.
The lineup showcases a rich variety of international cinema, highlighting unique stories and diverse cultural backgrounds. For instance, “A Child of My Own” from Maite Alberdi examines motherhood and societal pressures, while “A Fabulosa Máquina do Tempo” sheds light on the lives of girls navigating their transition from childhood to adolescence in Brazil.
This year’s selections reflect a mix of returning and debut filmmakers, promising a fresh and vibrant exploration of cinema’s power to challenge societal norms. With world premieres from veteran directors to emerging voices, the Berlinale continues to foster an environment for storytelling that is both innovative and socially relevant.
Overall, the festival promises to be a captivating experience, as it embraces a range of themes from identity and personal struggles to broader societal issues, showcasing the profound impact of cinema on the human experience. Berlinale 2026 stands as a promising platform for both recognized talents and emerging filmmakers aiming to share their voices on an international stage.