Germany’s Berlinale Festival Unveils New Selection Committee and Expands Advisory Team
The Berlinale, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, has announced significant updates to its programming leadership as it prepares for its 2024 edition. Festival Director Tricia Tuttle has appointed a new selection committee, which will be responsible for curating films across various key sections of the festival, including the Competition and Berlinale Special presentations.
The newly appointed selection committee includes distinguished professionals from the global film industry. Mathilde Henrot, a seasoned programmer and producer, brings her extensive experience from roles at the Locarno Film Festival and the Sarajevo Film Festival. Berlin-based Jessica Kiang, a film critic and programmer with nearly 15 years of experience, joins the committee, contributing her expertise in international film. Ghanaian consultant Jacqueline Nsiah, who has a background in cinema and cultural consultancy, and Israeli film programmer Elad Samorzik, known for his decade-long tenure as Artistic Director of the Jerusalem Film Festival, complete the team.
The committee will be co-chaired by Jacqueline Lyanga and Michael Stütz, who serve as Co-Directors of Film Programming. Together, they will oversee the selection of films for the Golden and Silver Bears as well as the Berlinale Special Presentations. This team will also collaborate with existing Heads of Sections across the Berlinale, such as Panorama, Generation, Berlinale Shorts, Forum, and Forum Expanded, to ensure a diverse and dynamic program.
In addition to the new selection committee, Tuttle has expanded Berlinale’s network of advisors and regional delegates, enhancing the festival’s global reach and expertise. Notable additions include Jin Park, a film critic and programmer specializing in genre cinema, and Rowan Woods, known for his work in curating international television and series. The advisory team will also feature curators and programmers like Ana David, Kate Taylor, Rabih El-Khoury, and Toby Ashraf, each bringing unique regional and thematic expertise to the table.
Berlinale’s network of regional and country delegates has also been strengthened, with representatives such as Mara Fortes covering Mexico, Colombia, and Ecuador, and Meenakshi Shedde focusing on South Asia. This expanded network will play a critical role in scouting films and fostering international collaborations.
With these strategic appointments, Berlinale is poised to continue its tradition of showcasing the best in contemporary cinema. Festival Director Tricia Tuttle emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives and extensive networks in curating a program that reflects the vibrancy of global cinema. As the festival approaches its 75th edition, the new team is set to bring fresh energy and insight into one of the most celebrated cultural events in the world.