In an effort to diffuse tension regarding the raging war in Gaza, organizers of the Berlin Film Festival have joined forces with Berlin-based social activists Shai Hoffmann and Jouanna Hassoun. Their novel idea called the “Tiny Space” project aims to use the common love of the artwork to spark constructive dialogue around the crisis in the Middle East.
The Tiny Space Project
Shai Hoffmann, a German Jew with Israeli roots, and Jouanna Hassoun, a German-Palestinian, are the driving duo behind the concept. They have crafted a small cabin-like structure near the festival’s red carpet due to be open for three days. Between Saturday, Feb. 17 and Monday, Feb. 19, attendees can visit the space to discuss not merely the complexities of the ongoing war but also the larger picture of Middle East conflict. This initiative is, in fact, an extension of a program the duo launched last year, using this small space to encourage conversation around difficult themes of Israel and Palestine.
Bridging the Divide Through Dialogue
Acknowledging the current societal difficulty of hosting both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine perspectives in one room, Berlinale artistic director Carlo Chatrain reiterated the festival’s commitment to fostering a space where dialogue is possible. Discussing the Tiny Space initiative, Chatrain said, “We believe a dialog is possible if we start with small groups [and] provide a space where certain arguments or certain emotions can be handled better than in a theater with 500 or 1,000 people.”
The Expected Controversy
While the approach is novel, the Berlin Film Festival is preparing for strong reactions. Earlier, the volatile debate around the war in Gaza sparked numerous pro-Palestinian protests, distorting the peace at Sundance and Amsterdam’s International Documentary Film Festival. Several directors withdrew their films in protest against the handling of the Middle Eastern conflict. Back in Berlin, two directors have declined to participate in the Forum Expanded section for experimental cinema. They expressed solidarity with #StrikeGermany, an anonymous group advocating for a boycott of the festival due to alleged German government support for Israel and its censorship of pro-Palestinian views.
A Call for Calm Amidst the Storm
In addressing the discourse, Berlinale managing director Mariëtte Rissenbeek stressed that the festival isn’t a platform for unrest but rather an opportunity for dialogue and understanding. By actively engaging with security services and police in Berlin, organizers hope any planned action or protests are handled safely, and discussions can continue constructively.
The Bigger Picture: Issues at Home
Despite the festival’s focus on Gaza, the organizers have also had to navigate domestic tensions recently. An open letter criticizing the festival’s invitation to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s elected members to the opening ceremony attracted more than 200 signatures from film professionals. Despite backlash and wide-spread protests against the AfD’s anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim stance, the festival has decided to uphold their invitation but has distanced themselves from the party’s values.
Wrapping Up
The Berlin Film Festival, this year, sets a stage for something much bigger than cinematic celebration. Harnessing the power of art and culture, it aims to foster dialogue in an uncertain world. For those keen on being part of these crucial conversations or simply enjoying the best of international cinema, the Berlin Film Festival is the place to be. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this monumental event, and for all things movies, don’t forget to check out HitPlay.
