Tricia Tuttle is the new Director of Berlin International Film Festival.

The Berlin International Film Festival is set for a transformative era as Tricia Tuttle, former director of the BFI London Film Festival, takes the helm starting April 2024. Chaired by Claudia Roth, the Board of Supervisors of the Kulturveranstaltungen des Bundes in Berlin GmbH (KBB) unanimously approved Tuttle’s appointment, marking a strategic move towards innovative and inclusive festival leadership.

Praise for Tuttle’s Visionary Strategies

Tricia Tuttle, renowned for her dynamic leadership at the BFI London Film Festival, brings over 25 years of industry experience and a track record of elevating festivals to new heights. Minister of State for Culture and the Media Claudia Roth praised Tuttle’s appointment, citing her visionary strategies for enhancing audience engagement, embracing digitalisation, and fostering diversity in cinema.

“Tricia Tuttle’s appointment signifies a pivotal moment for the Berlinale,” remarked Minister Roth. “Her proven expertise in steering festivals towards global prominence, coupled with her innovative approaches to modernising the film landscape, align perfectly with our vision for the future of this prestigious event.”

Tuttle’s Enthusiasm and Commitment

Expressing her excitement, Tricia Tuttle conveyed her deep admiration for the Berlinale, recognising it as a beacon of diversity and artistic excellence. “The Berlinale embodies the essence of cinematic artistry, and I am honoured to lead this platform that celebrates the transformative power of film,” said Tuttle. She emphasized her commitment not only to building upon the festival’s legacy but also to ushering in new, inclusive programming and amplifying diverse voices.

Endorsement from Industry

The selection committee, comprised of industry names such as Oscar winner Edward Berger and actress Sara Fazilat, wholeheartedly endorsed Tuttle’s appointment. They anticipate a seamless transition under the stewardship of current directors Carlo Chatrian and Mariëtte Rissenbeek for the upcoming Berlinale 2024.

Lupita Nyong’o to Lead International Jury

In another announcement, the Berlinale revealed Lupita Nyong’o, as the President of the International Jury for the 74th Berlin International Film Festival.

Nyong’o’s words

The esteemed Kenyan-Mexican actress, known for films like “Black Panther”, “Us”, “12 Years Slave” and “Little Monsters”, expressed her profound honour of serving as Jury President. “I am deeply honoured to serve as the President of the International Jury of the Berlin International Film Festival. I look forward to celebrating and recognising the outstanding work of filmmakers worldwide,” states Lupita Nyong’o.

Lupita Nyong’o is currently preparing a podcast focussing on non-fictional storytelling from the African diaspora. She is developing a series based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Americanah”.

Nyong’o was recently executive producer of the Sudanese film “Goodbye Julia” (directorial debut of Mohamed Kordofani).