Author Arundhati Roy Quits Berlin Film Festival Over Jury Comments

Acclaimed Author Arundhati Roy Withdraws from Berlin International Film Festival

Indian author Arundhati Roy has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming Berlin International Film Festival due to comments made by festival jurors about a recent conflict in Gaza. In an article published in India’s The Wire newspaper, Roy expressed her disappointment with remarks made by festival jurors, including chair Wim Wenders, who stated that filmmakers should “stay out of politics.”

Roy described these statements as “unconscionable” and argued that artists, writers, and filmmakers have a responsibility to address human rights issues. She also emphasized the need for creatives to speak out against genocide, citing the conflict in Gaza as an example.

During a panel launch event on Thursday, journalists asked festival jurors about their views on German government support for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Wim Wenders responded by stating that filmmakers should avoid engaging in politics, suggesting they focus on providing a counterbalance to political discourse. Polish film producer Ewa Puszczynska also expressed her opinion, arguing that filmmakers cannot be held responsible for the actions of governments.

The Berlin International Film Festival is set to take place from February 12 to 22. Roy had been scheduled to participate in the event after her 1989 film “In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones” was selected for screening in the Classics section.

Source: Al Jazeera