Berlinale 2025 to Launch with Tom Tykwer’s “Das Licht”
The 75th Berlin International Film Festival will commence on February 13, 2025, with the world premiere of Das Licht (The Light), the newest feature film by acclaimed German filmmaker Tom Tykwer. The German-French co-production will be showcased as a Berlinale Special Gala at the iconic Berlinale Palast.
Festival Director Tricia Tuttle praised the selection, stating, “We knew as soon as we saw Das Licht (The Light) that we wanted to have it open the 75th Berlinale. Tom Tykwer finds beauty and joy in our often fractured and challenging world, and magically captures the essence of our modern life on screen. It is our great pleasure to welcome Tom back to the Berlinale with Das Licht (The Light).”
Starring Lars Eidinger and Nicolette Krebitz, the film explores the life of the Engels family, a seemingly disconnected unit brought together by their enigmatic Syrian housekeeper Farrah, played by Tala Al-Deen. Farrah's arrival disrupts their mundane lives and unearths long-buried emotions, all while she follows a mysterious plan of her own that reshapes the family’s future.
The film delves into themes of connection, hidden truths, and the challenges of modern family dynamics. Tykwer’s screenplay and direction aim to capture the rhythm of contemporary German life in an increasingly volatile world.
This is Tykwer’s third Berlinale opening feature. He previously inaugurated the festival with Heaven in 2002 and The International in 2009. Reflecting on his relationship with the Berlinale, Tykwer remarked, “The Berlinale is the festival of my life. The city is my destiny. This film is my longing.”
Produced by X Filme Creative Pool in collaboration with ZDF, ARP Sélection, and other notable partners, Das Licht (The Light) boasts an impressive production team. The film is slated for theatrical release in Germany on March 20, 2025, distributed by X Verleih in partnership with Warner Bros. Beta Cinema manages world sales, ensuring the film reaches a global audience.
The 75th Berlinale marks a significant milestone for the festival, celebrating decades of cinematic excellence and innovation. With Tykwer's heartfelt exploration of family life, Das Licht (The Light) promises to set the tone for a memorable edition of one of the world’s premier film festivals.