10 Films To Look Forward To At Berlinale 2020

Alright, settle in, grab your imaginary pretzel (or a real one, I'm not your boss), because we're about to embark on a cinematic adventure! Berlinale 2020 is just around the corner, and let me tell you, my popcorn-loving heart is doing a little jig of anticipation. It’s like Christmas, but with more arthouse films and less questionable knitted sweaters from Aunt Mildred. This year, the festival is serving up a smorgasbord of cinematic delights, and I've sifted through the program (with the help of a really strong espresso) to bring you the 10 films that are guaranteed to make your eyeballs do a happy dance. Forget doom-scrolling, this is joy-scrolling, people!

Let’s be honest, navigating a film festival can be like trying to find a decent Wi-Fi signal in a medieval castle. Overwhelming, right? But fear not, your trusty (and slightly caffeinated) guide is here to point you towards the good stuff. We’ve got quirky comedies, heart-wrenching dramas, and films that might just make you question the fabric of reality (in the best possible way, of course).

The Ones That Have Us Buzzing Like a Bee in a Honey Factory

First up, a film that’s already got the internet in a tizzy: "Undine." Directed by Christian Petzold, a man whose films are so atmospheric you could practically bottle them, this one’s a modern fairy tale. Think mermaids, but make it Berlin. The trailer is gorgeous, a little bit haunting, and promises a tale of love, loss, and maybe a few soggy feet. I'm already picturing myself needing a strong cup of tea after this one, contemplating the existential dread of being a mythical creature in a city with excellent public transport. If it's anything like Petzold's last Berlin entry, Transit (which, by the way, I’m still recovering from), prepare for some serious emotional whiplash. But the good kind! Like falling off a particularly soft sofa.

Then there’s the much-anticipated "The Roads Not Taken," starring the always brilliant Elle Fanning and Salma Hayek. Why is it anticipated? Well, partly because of the star power, but also because it’s directed by Sally Potter. This woman knows how to craft a film that lingers. Word on the street (and by "street" I mean the Berlinale press releases) is that it's a deeply personal story about memory and the choices we make. I’m expecting existential musings, stunning visuals, and possibly a moment where I shed a single, perfectly formed tear. And honestly, that’s what we go to festivals for, right? To feel things. Deeply. Maybe so deeply we need a nap afterwards.

Keeping with the theme of things that will probably make us feel things, we have "First Cow." From the always reliable Kelly Reichardt, this film is set in the American West in the 1820s. Yes, you read that right. Cowboys. And, you guessed it, a cow. Apparently, it’s a story about two drifters who team up to make their fortune. I’m hoping for a healthy dose of rugged individualism, maybe some questionable hygiene practices (historical accuracy, people!), and definitely some spectacular scenery. If it’s anything like Reichardt’s previous films, it’ll be quiet, contemplative, and sneak up on you with its emotional power. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a gentle hug that makes you realize you’ve been carrying around a lot of existential baggage.

The Quirky and the Controversial (Because Why Not?)

Now, for something completely different: "Days of Cannibalism." This sounds, shall we say, intense. It’s a South African documentary that promises to explore the complexities of inequality and capitalism. The title alone is enough to make you sit up and pay attention. I’m imagining a film that’s as thought-provoking as it is uncomfortable, the kind that sparks heated debates in the café afterwards (which, as you know, is my favorite part). It’s like a really challenging yoga pose for your brain – a little painful, but ultimately good for you. Plus, who doesn’t love a good documentary that makes you feel slightly more informed and significantly more concerned about the state of the world?

On the more whimsical side, keep an eye out for "Shirley." This one’s a biopic about the iconic horror novelist Shirley Jackson, and it stars Elisabeth Moss. Now, Elisabeth Moss is basically a national treasure at this point, so this is already a win. The trailer hints at a darkly humorous and psychological exploration of Jackson’s life and work. I’m expecting gothic vibes, literary references, and enough unsettling atmosphere to make you double-check your closet before bed. It's like a cozy horror story, if that even makes sense. Probably not, but I'm rolling with it.

Let’s talk about a film that’s got tongues wagging for all the right reasons: "Berlin Alexanderplatz." This isn't your grandma’s historical drama. It's a contemporary reimagining of Alfred Döblin's classic novel, and the director, Burhan Qurbani, is known for his bold visual style. I’m bracing myself for something gritty, fast-paced, and probably a little bit mind-bending. Berlin is a city that’s seen a lot, and I’m excited to see how this film captures its modern soul. It’s like a remix of a classic, and if it’s done well, it could be absolutely electrifying. Just try not to spill your coffee when the bass drops.

The International Flavor (Because the World is Big and Full of Movies)

We can't have a Berlinale lineup without some incredible international cinema. So, let’s jet over to South Korea (figuratively, of course, my passport is currently expired) for "The Woman of the Lake." Directed by Kim Bo-ram, this is another documentary, and apparently, it's about the "true story" of the women who worked at a textile factory during the Korean War. Documentaries about unsung heroes? Sign me up! I’m expecting resilience, quiet strength, and a healthy dose of historical context that we might not get from our usual Hollywood fare. It’s a reminder that history is often written by the victors, but the real stories are often found in the quiet spaces, whispered by those who lived through it.

And speaking of quiet spaces, let's not forget "Death of a Virgin and Other Stories." This anthology film from Lebanon promises a collection of stories that are both personal and political. Anthology films can be a gamble – you might get a few duds in there – but when they’re good, they’re really good. The subject matter sounds intriguing, and I’m always fascinated by how different filmmakers from the same region approach similar themes. It’s like a cinematic tasting menu, and I’m eager to see what flavors they’ve cooked up.

Moving on to something that sounds utterly charming: "My Little Sister." This Swiss film is about two sisters who embark on a road trip to find a new home for their father. It sounds like it could be a sweet, funny, and poignant look at family dynamics. Road trips, parental drama, sibling rivalry – what’s not to love? I’m picturing beautiful European landscapes, witty banter, and a good dose of emotional catharsis. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug and a knowing smile. You know, the kind you get from someone who truly understands you.

Finally, we have the intriguingly titled "Swimming Out, Talking Life." This is a film about the power of storytelling and the human need to connect. Directed by Mahdi Fleifel, it sounds like it’s going to be a more abstract and poetic experience. I’m not entirely sure what to expect, which, in itself, is exciting! It could be a masterpiece that leaves you pondering the universe for days, or it could be… well, something else. But that’s the beauty of film festivals, isn’t it? The thrill of the unknown, the possibility of discovering your new favorite movie. So, get your tickets, prepare your snacks, and get ready for a cinematic journey that will leave you talking about it long after the credits roll. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go buy more popcorn. For research, obviously.