In a heartwarming triumph, the Norwegian film “Dreams (Sex Love)” directed by Dag Johan Haugerud clinched the prestigious top prize at the Berlin International Film Festival. This charming and humorous film unveils the complexities of high school infatuation, revolving around a student’s intense feelings towards her teacher and her choice to document their intricate bond. It is part of a trilogy exploring modern relationships in Oslo, with its predecessors, “Sex” and “Love,” having debuted at previous festivals.
The jury, presided over by renowned American director Todd Haynes, featured notable figures including Chinese actress Fan Bingbing and German filmmaker Maria Schrader, offering a diverse perspective on this year’s selections. The runner-up honour was awarded to the Brazilian narrative “The Blue Trail,” which poignantly portrays societal issues faced by those over 77, gaining significant acclaim within the competition.
Additionally, the film “The Message” from Argentina, which tells the vivid story of a girl who believes she can converse with animals, was recognised with a special jury prize. Director Iván Fund emphasised the significance of this win amidst oppressive cuts to the arts under the current administration, asserting, “Cinema is under attack, but film cannot be undone.”
The festival showcased a rich tapestry of storytelling, highlighting the resonance of youth and the vibrancy of cultural expression.
The Norwegian film “Dreams (Sex Love)” has won the top prize at the Berlin International Film Festival, praised for its exploration of teen infatuation. Acclaimed works included “The Blue Trail,” a Brazilian film addressing aging, and Argentina’s “The Message,” celebrating communication with animals. Notable jury members included Todd Haynes and Fan Bingbing, and sentiments around cultural preservation were echoed passionately during the event.
The Berlin International Film Festival celebrated the triumph of the Norwegian film “Dreams (Sex Love)” as the best feature, shining a light on teen infatuation. The jury, led by Todd Haynes, recognised impactful narratives like the Brazilian “The Blue Trail” and Argentina’s “The Message,” each tackling profound themes from aging to artistic resilience. This year’s festival reaffirmed the power of cinema to provoke thought and foster discussion on critical societal issues.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
