The 75th Berlin Film Festival is nearing its final stretch, only one more competition film is left to be screened, Lionel Baier’s “The Safe House.” Screen’s Berlin Jury Grid has given us some hints about what might be in contention to win the Golden Bear. Of course, a surprise could occur come awards night, but it seems to be down to five films.
Leading the way as the frontrunner is Gabriel Mascaro’s “The Blue Trail,” a critical darling that surprised many in Berlin. Helming from Brazil, the film is a science fiction fantasy centering on Tereza, a 77-year-old woman who, upon being forced into retirement and facing relocation to a government-mandated senior colony, decides to defy this fate.
Also in contention is Radu Jude’s “Kontinental ‘25,” which earned strong reviews, and is a semi-departure from the messier narrative of “Do Not Expect Too Much From the End of the World.” The film tackles Orsolya, a bailiff in Cluj, who faces a moral crisis after a homeless man she evicts commits suicide. The film is said to satirically explore themes of greed, reactionary politics, and social indifference in Romania.
Then there’s Richard Linklater’s “Blue Moon,” maybe the most well-received film by audiences at this year’s Berlinale. The reviews have also been good (74 on MC). Set on March 31, 1943, it portrays lyricist Lorenz Hart, played by Ethan Hawke, confronting personal and professional turmoil during the opening night of "Oklahoma!" at Sardi's restaurant. The film delves into Hart's struggles with alcoholism, depression, and his complex relationship with former collaborator Richard Rodgers.
Don’t count out Michel Franco’s “Dreams,” which stars Jessica Chastain as a privileged woman who involves herself in a forbidden romance with a Mexican male ballet dancer; he also happens to be an undocumented immigrant, illegally installed in the United States, which ends up complicating their relationship.
Hong Sangsoo, who has won four Silver Bears, could finally end up getting the top prize for his latest film, “What Does Nature Say To You,” which just screened for press. This is yet another Hong film filled with drinking and conversation, and critics are mostly onboard, with reviews indicating another minor-key gem from the Korean filmmaker.
