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Wim Wenders to Lead Jury at 76th Berlin International Film Festival
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A celebrated figure in global cinema, Wim Wenders, will preside over the international jury at the 76th Berlinale, set to take place February 12-22, 2026. The appointment of the 80-year-old director signals a prestigious moment for the festival and a renewed focus on artistic vision.
A Resurgence for a Master Filmmaker
Wenders, renowned for iconic films such as Wings of Desire and Paris, Texas, is experiencing a meaningful career revival. His recent work, including the Oscar-nominated Perfect Days (2023) and the 3D documentary Anselm (2023) – a compelling exploration of artist Anselm Kiefer – has garnered critical acclaim and solidified his position as a leading voice in contemporary cinema.
Berlinale Celebrates Wenders’ Influence
“Wim Wenders is one of the most influential voices in international cinema,” stated a senior official from the Berlinale. “For six decades, he has made films that move and delight us with their humanity and sense of wonder.His insatiable curiosity and deep mastery of film language are evident in every work, whether he is exploring the gifts of other artists or illuminating our own search for meaning and connection. To say we are proud of this homegrown polymath is an understatement, and we cannot wait to see where jury president Wim Wenders leads our jury in picking the Golden and Silver Bear winners of the 76th Berlinale.”
Wenders himself expressed surprise and gratitude at the invitation. “It never hit me to even remotely think about being jury president in my hometown,” he said. “Until Tricia Tuttle asked me. And then I realized: Wow! That’ll be a whole new way to see films at the berlinale, for once, watch each and every one in the Competition and discuss them all in-depth with a group of smart and movie-loving people. How good can it get? I’m grateful to Tricia for inviting me to this rare experience.”
A Legacy of Innovation and Support for Cinema
A key figure in the New German Cinema movement, Wenders has consistently championed artistic independence and collaboration. He co-founded the artist-run production and distribution company Filmverlag der Autoren in 1971, and in 2003, became a founding member of the German Film Academy. His commitment extends to the broader European film community, as a co-founder of the European Film Academy, where he served as president for over two decades.
Through the Wim Wenders Stiftung,the director actively supports film heritage,emerging filmmakers,and film education,ensuring the future of the art form.
A Longstanding Relationship with the berlinale
Wenders’ connection to the Berlinale spans decades. He has previously opened the festival with Pina in 2011, The Million Dollar Hotel in 2000, and the 3D feature Everything Will be Fine in 2015. He has also presented numerous films within the festival program over the years.
In 2015, the Berlinale recognized Wenders’ exceptional contributions with the Honorary Golden Bear, a testament to his lasting impact on the world of cinema.
The international jury, under Wenders’ leadership, will announce the winners of the Golden and Silver Bears on February 21, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the 76th
