Film lovers everywhere, rejoice! The Berlin International Film Festival is underway, showcasing some of the best motion pictures from around the world.
The film festival, better known as the Berlinale, is not quite as well known as the likes of Cannes and Sundance, but is becoming the place to see future Oscar nominations.
Now in its 62nd year, the Berlinale is promising to be bigger and better than ever. Last year, the festival’s crop garnered more Oscar nominations than Sundance – and it could be the same this year.
The Berlinale is a truly international festival, with great films from all corners of globe on show. So what are the best international films to see this year?
Caesar Must Die, Italy
This documentary from acclaimed Italian director brothers Paolo and Vittorio Taviani follows a production of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.
If it sounds a little prosaic, the fact that the production is being put on by the inmates of an Italian maximum security prison should add another dimension.
Farewell My Queen, France
Films at the Berlinale this year are not short on A-Listers, and Farewell My Queen is no different. French director Benoit Jacquot sets this costume drama in 1789 Varsailles, with Diane Kruger as Marie Attoinette.
Iron Sky, Finland
One of the hottest tickets at the festival this year, Iron Sky has got film fans and critics very excited. Telling the slightly odd story of a Nazi invasion from outer space, Iron Sky is not one to be missed.
But if the story of a futuristic Nazi invasion from space sounds a little heavy for you, worry not. The film is actually a comedy.
Don 2 – The King is Back, India
This film from Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan was the fastest-selling when the Berlinale opened its doors. Fans camped for three days to get a ticket to this high-octane Indian action film.
(Image: © Berlinale)
