The Berlinale released the first film titles around two months before the start of the festival. Films from Ukraine and Iran, for example, are to be shown in the program of the Panorama section. Independent filmmaking is impressing this year from many corners of the world. "The many works by filmmakers worldwide who defy war, systematic persecution and oppression with their films are particularly impressive," said section head Michael Stütz on Thursday.

The animated film "La Sirène" by Iranian director Sepideh Farsi deals with the first Iraq-Iran war, while the documentary "Iron Butterflies" deals with the downing of the MH17 passenger plane over Ukraine. The Iranian film "Dreams' Gate" about Kurdish women fighting the Islamic State terrorist militia is to be shown in the "Generations" youth program.

Alongside Cannes and Venice, the Berlinale is one of the major film festivals. The next edition is scheduled for February 16-26. Which films will then run in the competition and compete for the Golden Bear is to be announced on January 23rd. There will be changes at the venues. The Friedrichstadtpalast will not be used this time, but the Verti Music Hall near the Warschauer Straße will be.