Berlinale: success for Swiss films and much attention for Luna Wedler

The International Jury explained their choice of FORTUNA as follows: “A complete balance of elements where the sincere performances of the actors and sublime black and white cinematography create a compelling world at the same time contemporary and timeless. This film transcends religious and political dogma in a beautifully realized tale of purity and survival as seen through the eyes of a strong-willed Ethiopian girl.”

The Swiss short film DRESSED FOR PLEASURE by Marie de Maricourt, produced by GoldenEggProduction and HEAD-Genève, received a Special Mention from the Youth Jury in the same section. “The film fascinated us with its clear, choreography-like composition. Static shots reflect the protagonist’s external isolation, while her inner life is depicted by dynamic images featuring a great attention to detail. The film’s themes of self-determination and the realisation of one’s own sexual identity moved us and sparked discussion.”

In the Berlinale Shorts section, the Swiss-Rwandan short film IMFURA by Samuel Ishimwe, produced by HEAD – Genève and Imitana Productions, was honoured with the Silver Bear Jury Prize. The film celebrated its world premiere in Berlin.

The documentary ELDORADO by Markus Imhoof received a Special Mention from the Amnesty International Jury and excellent reviews in the trade papers. For instance, Screen International wrote: “One of the most moving statements to have been made thus far on the refugee crisis in the Mediterranean,” and Variety praised the film with: “fresh perspective that makes its political point”. ELDORADO starts in Swiss cinemas on March 8 and in German cinemas on April 26.

Actress Luna Wedler also garnered a great deal of attention in the national and international media as Switzerland’s Shooting Star and youngest among the ten European Shooting Stars, an event initiated by European Film Promotion.

Approximately one dozen films with Swiss participation were screened at the 68^th Berlinale, with a particularly strong presence from the French part of Switzerland presenting more than ten films.

SWISS FILMS, February 26, 2018