Berlin film festival head to keep job after Gaza free speech row

"Tuttle's position came under threat after an awards gala at the end of the 76th edition last month in which several prize winners condemned Israel's actions against Palestinians from the stage. The German culture minister, Wolfram Weimer, last week convened a crisis meeting as the Bild tabloid reported Tuttle was to be fired over giving hate speech an airing."

"In an open letter, more than 2,800 actors, directors and producers including Tilda Swinton, Todd Haynes and Nancy Spielberg warned her departure would smack of government intimidation of free expression and artistic liberty. The directors of several global film festivals including Cannes, Toronto and Sundance also threw their support behind Tuttle."

"The controversy this year centred around Syrian-Palestinian director Abdallah al-Khatib, who accepted the best first feature award for his hard-hitting drama Chronicles From the Siege and criticised Germany as partners in the genocide in Gaza by Israel. The remarks prompted the German environment minister, Carsten Schneider, to walk out of the ceremony in protest."

Tricia Tuttle, American director of the Berlin film festival, faced potential dismissal following an awards ceremony where prize winners criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. German culture minister Wolfram Weimer convened a crisis meeting after media reports suggested her removal. However, over 2,800 filmmakers, actors, and producers—including prominent figures like Tilda Swinton and Todd Haynes—signed an open letter opposing her departure, citing concerns about government interference with artistic freedom. Directors from major festivals including Cannes, Toronto, and Sundance also supported Tuttle. The controversy centered on Syrian-Palestinian director Abdallah al-Khatib's acceptance speech criticizing Germany's support for Israel. Despite tensions between international artists and German pro-Israel political authorities, Tuttle will remain in her position while the festival develops new conduct guidelines addressing antisemitism.

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