Berlinale Special

Berlinale Special is one of the most diverse sections of the festival, and with four strands of programming it offers a warm welcome to our loyal and new audiences alike. Audiences will discover Red Carpet galas that harness the star power and charisma of well-known on screen talents; late-night genre thrills; “talking point” films that need space for deeper discussion, as well as previews of outstanding new filmmaking in series form.

Originating from the special screenings associated with the Competition since 1984, Berlinale Special has, since 2004, offered a vibrant selection of films, series and events – uncovering cinematic gems year after year.

Over time, Berlinale Special has also become a space for reflection on cinema and culture. Works might also delve into the origins of film or other art forms, explore cinematic heritage or portray filmmakers and other artists.

The section comprises several distinct programme strands:

• Berlinale Special Gala brings international stars to the Red Carpet and showcases high-profile films in a glamorous setting. This is a chance to come face to face with screen legends and see films destined for wider release.
• Berlinale Special Presentation features carefully curated works which address key thematic, artistic or political topics. Screenings offer space for deeper discussions around the films, for conversations with the filmmakers and guests, and allow audiences to engage more closely with the works, their creators and the ideas in the film.
• Berlinale Special Midnight ventures into the realms of genre cinema: horror, thrillers, science fiction and the instant cult classics, this is an electrifying late-night cinema experience of the strange, the thrilling, the visceral, and for night owls.
• Berlinale Special Series is dedicated to serial filmmaking and cinematic television, reflecting the vitality and significance of episodic formats in contemporary visual culture.

Films in the Berlinale Special can be nominated for the Berlinale Documentary Award.