January 14, 2026: The Panorama Programme's Grand Finale
The Berlinale's Panorama section, a showcase of diverse cinematic talents, concludes its 2026 edition with a lineup that promises to captivate and provoke thought. This year's selection is a testament to the power of film as a medium that transcends borders and cultures, offering a unique perspective on the human condition.
Among the 37 films from 36 countries, several stand out for their emotional depth and social commentary. 'Lali' by Sarmad Sultan Khoosat and 'Iván & Hadoum' by Ian de la Rosa offer a glimpse into the complexities of love and societal norms, while 'Allegro Pastell' by Anna Roller, an adaptation of Leif Randt's work, provides a contemporary diagnosis of our times. 'Se eu fosse vivo... vivia' by André Novais Oliveira, on the other hand, explores the enduring nature of love.
The Panorama also delves into themes of migration and survival, with 'El jardín que soñamos' by Joaquín del Paso and 'Enjoy Your Stay' by Dominik Locher and Honeylyn Joy Alipio. These films, with their gripping narratives and innovative storytelling, showcase the struggles of those seeking a better life. Hong Sangsoo, a master director, contributes 'Geunyeoga doraon nal', a subtle reflection on the acting profession.
Feminist perspectives shine through in 'Árru' by Elle Sofe Sara, a Sami choreographer's extraordinary film debut, 'Roya' by Mahnaz Mohammadi, an Iranian activist's stirring drama, and 'Lady' by Olive Nwosu, an ambitious debut. 'The Moment' by Aidan Zamiri, featuring pop superstar Charli xcx, is a mockumentary that empowers and satirizes the music industry.
The documentary section is equally impressive, offering poetic insights into pressing issues. 'Im Umkreis des Paradieses' and 'Tristan Forever' by Yulia Lokshina and Tobias Nölle and Loran Bonnardot, respectively, explore utopias in self-imposed exile, set against the contrasting backdrops of Paraguay and the island of Tristan da Cunha. Tawfik Sabouni, Alisa Kovalenko, and Marysia Nikitiuk's documentaries provide spaces for contemplation, allowing protagonists to share their traumas and the global impact of war, violence, and abuse.
Two documentary portraits of influential artists, 'Siri Hustvedt – Dance Around the Self' and 'Douglas Gordon by Douglas Gordon', further enrich the programme. Queer cinema takes center stage with 'Two Mountains Weighing Down My Chest' by Viv Li and 'La Face cachée de la Terre' by Arnaud Alain, offering documentary insights into queer perspectives. 'The Education of Jane Cumming' and 'Narciso' by Marcelo Martinessi add historical context to queer historiography.
The Berlinale celebrates the 40th anniversary of the TEDDY AWARD with a special queer film edition, traditionally held at the Volksbühne Berlin on February 20, 2026. The 'WILD AT HEART' complementary programme will provide further details. The 28th Panorama Audience Award, presented in cooperation with radioeins and rbb television on February 22 at the Zoo Palast, will honor the feature film and documentary that resonate most with audiences.
For those eager to explore, the 2026 Panorama film list is available online and as a PDF, offering a comprehensive guide to this year's cinematic journey.
