A Norwegian film about love, desire, and self-discovery won the Golden Bear at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on Saturday.
Dreams (Sex Love) Takes the Spotlight
The jury, led by American director Todd Haynes, awarded the top prize to Dreams (Sex Love) by Norwegian filmmaker Dag Johan Haugerud. Notably, Haynes praised the film, calling it a “meditation on love” that “cuts you to the quick with its keen intelligence.”
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The story follows a teenage girl, played by Ella Øverbyer, who develops feelings for her female French teacher. However, when her mother and grandmother discover her private writings, they react strongly. Interestingly, this film is the final part of Haugerud’s trilogy. Sex premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 2024, while Love screened at the Venice Film Festival the same year.
Silver Bear and Other Top Awards
Meanwhile, Brazilian director Gabriel Mascaro won the Silver Bear for his dystopian drama The Blue Trail. Additionally, Argentine filmmaker Ivan Fund received the Jury Prize for The Message, a rural drama.
Furthermore, Chinese director Huo Meng earned the Best Director award for Living the Land, a film set in 1990s China.
Acting Honors for Byrne and Scott
In the acting categories, Rose Byrne won Best Performer for her role in If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You, directed by Mary Bronstein. Likewise, Andrew Scott secured the Supporting Performer trophy for playing composer Richard Rodgers in Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon.
Berlinale Ends Amid Political Tensions
Finally, the festival concluded just before Germany’s parliamentary elections. Since migration and the economy have dominated the political debate, the timing added to the festival’s significance.
