Introduction
The 75th Berlinale, one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, concluded with a grand celebration of cinema. With over 336,000 tickets sold and nearly 19,000 accredited professionals attending, this year’s festival was a landmark event. The biggest question on everyone’s mind—who won the top prizes? Let’s break down the most notable awards of Berlinale 2025.
Golden Bear for Best Film – “Drømmer”
The coveted Golden Bear, awarded by the International Jury, went to the Norwegian drama “Drømmer”. Directed by an emerging talent in Scandinavian cinema, the film explores the emotional depth of human dreams and aspirations, blending realism with poetic storytelling. Critics praised its cinematography and powerful performances, making it a well-deserved winner.
Silver Bear Awards – Recognizing Outstanding Achievements
- Grand Jury Prize: To Be Announced
- Best Director: To Be Announced
- Best Actress: To Be Announced
- Best Actor: To Be Announced
(This section will be updated with further winner details as soon as they are officially announced.)
Berlinale Shorts – Best Short Film
The Golden Bear for Best Short Film was awarded to “Unfinished” by Lloyd Wong. This short film captivated audiences with its experimental approach to storytelling, offering a unique blend of visual poetry and deep narrative exploration.
Best First Feature – “El Diablo Fuma”
The GWFF Best First Feature Award was given to the Mexican film “El Diablo Fuma (y guarda las cabezas de los cerillos quemados en la misma caja)”. This remarkable debut was recognized in the new Perspectives section, highlighting promising new voices in world cinema.
Berlinale Documentary Award – “Holding Liat”
The Berlinale Documentary Award went to “Holding Liat”, a film that delves into profound human experiences with exceptional storytelling and cinematography. It was praised for its ability to merge investigative journalism with an intimate portrait of its subject.
The Impact of Berlinale 2025 on Global Cinema
This year’s Berlinale celebrated diversity, emerging voices, and innovative storytelling. From Norwegian dramas to experimental short films, the festival reaffirmed its reputation as a platform for artistic expression and social dialogue. With a mix of veteran filmmakers and fresh talents, Berlinale 2025 set a new standard for international film festivals.
