february 2023

Jun 14

George Rosolymos · February 2023

Despite the chilly temperatures, February in Berlin is a delightful and cozy experience, filled with art and plenty of cultural events for every taste. So that's what we did. We soaked up as much art as we could!

Since we moved to Berlin, in 2015, I always wanted to visit the Deutsche Kinemathek, but for various reasons, we never made it. Finally, we did it! It is a museum next to Potsdamer Platz, dedicated to collecting, preserving, and showcasing German and international film history. The permanent collection of the museum features an impressive array of artifacts, ranging from early film equipment to iconic movie costumes and props. Watching archive material from the early German expressionist cinema, such as The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, Metropolis, and many others was like a dream to me. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that explore different aspects of film culture and has a cinema that screens classic films. At that time, there was a tribute to a pioneer of New German Cinema, Werner Herzog. I will definitely visit that museum again.

let's not forget the highlight of February in Berlin - the annual Berlinale International Film Festival, which draws film enthusiasts from around the world. We consider ourselves confirmed habitués of the festival, as we never missed one! This year the slogan was “Let's get together”. After two unusual years due to the pandemic, the festival returned to its normal function with full cinemas and sold-out premieres. Solidarity was also a huge part of the festival. In view of the ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and the courageous struggles for liberation in Iran, the Berlinale expressed its support through the film selection and events. The highlight was the emotional expression of solidarity on the Red carpet for the protest movement in Iran by representatives of various Film teams, jury members, and further filmmakers. Αrt can and should have a socio-political commentary!