BERLIN, Feb 1, 2024 (ZIZ): The Generation section of the 74th Berlinale Film Festival proudly unveils its distinguished panels of jurors, ready to contribute their discerning perspectives to evaluate and honor outstanding cinematic works. The International Jury and Children’s and Youth Jury, key components of Generation’s commitment to fostering cinema for young audiences, are set to play pivotal roles in recognizing excellence.
In both the Kplus and 14plus competitions, the International Jury of Generation, comprising three cinema enthusiasts, will be responsible for awarding the Grand Prix for the Best Film (valued at 7,500 euros) and the Special Prize for the Best Short Film (valued at 2,500 euros). The Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung (Federal Agency for Civic Education) generously sponsors the prizes in the 14plus competition, while the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk (German Children’s Fund) supports the prizes in the Kplus competition.
Section manager Melika Gothe underscores the significance of the juries, emphasizing their role in shaping the collective experience of cinema and fostering subsequent discussions. She notes that the Children’s and Youth Jury, composed of individuals who started as Generation viewers, now have the platform to share their unique perspectives and expectations of cinema, amplifying their voices within the film community.
In addition, the International Jury, consisting of distinguished filmmakers and industry professionals, promises a diverse range of viewpoints. The ongoing support from long-time partners for Generation is acknowledged with gratitude as it continues to elevate cinema for young audiences beyond traditional norms.
The 2024 International Jury of Generation comprises:
- Amjad Abu Alala (Sudan): A Dubai-born Sudanese director, Abu Alala’s notable works include the award-winning film “You Will Die at Twenty,” recognized at prestigious festivals such as Venice International Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival. With a rich background in film programming, he has been actively involved in the Sudan Independent Film Festival since 2014.
- Banafshe Hourmazdi (Iran / Germany): An accomplished actor with a background in theatre, Hourmazdi received acclaim for her role in Faraz Shariat’s “Futur Drei,” which premiered at the Berlinale Panorama in 2020. Her diverse portfolio includes performances in films such as “Kokon” and “Ein Fest fürs Leben.”
- Ira Sachs (USA): A New York City-based director, Sachs has been a regular presence in the Berlinale programme, with films like “Little Men” in the Generation section. Beyond his work behind the camera, Sachs is the founder of QueerArt, an organization supporting LGBTQ+ artists in various artistic disciplines.
The Children’s and Youth Jury, the youngest official Berlinale juries, are comprised of seven Berlin children aged eleven to fourteen for the Generation Kplus competition and five young people for the Generation 14plus competition. Independently evaluating films, they will award the Crystal Bears for the best short and long films. Young festival visitors can qualify for participation in the Children’s or Youth Jury by sharing their thoughts and comments on Generation films via film questionnaires distributed during the festival or through the official website.
Additionally, the AG Kino Gilde – Cinema Vision 14plus will independently award a feature film in the Generation 14plus competition. This initiative aligns with the Berlinale Spotlight: Generation Cinema Vision 14plus, promoting a cooperative commitment to enhance young film culture nationwide.
The 74th Berlinale Film Festival’s Generation section stands poised to deliver a compelling celebration of cinema for young audiences, driven by the expertise and passion of its distinguished jurors.
