How will Corona change the film industry? That’s the “million-dollar question,” says Berlinale boss Chatrian. And makes a plea for cinema at the start of the festival.
Berlin – The festival director of the Berlinale, Carlo Chatrian, promised the cinema industry his support before the start of the film festival.
“You can watch a film at home or on your cell phone. But when we talk about culture, it’s not just about content. It’s also about how the content is shown,” Chatrian told the German Press Agency. The Berlinale is scheduled to open this Thursday.
“If you ask me about my favorite film experiences, I can talk about titles, but also about the place where I saw a film. Or about the people I was there with,” said the Italian, who runs the Berlinale together with Mariette Rissenbeek from the Netherlands.
Chatrian said there is a special feeling when you go to the cinema. When you’re sitting next to someone who likes the comedy – and suddenly you like the movie a lot better too. “It’s the same with tears. I think we need that part these days. Being together is important for society.”
How will the pandemic change the film industry? “That’s a million dollar question. If I had an answer, I could sell it to studios or streaming platforms,” Chatrian said. “I think there’s a trend that’s very clear – and that’s an advantage for streaming platforms. They have more freedom to position their films.”
“What you can see: The final part of the production chain – film distribution – is changing a lot,” Chatrian said. “And we are all aware that cinemas are in a difficult situation.” He not only says this as director of the Berlinale, but he also talks about it with the festival directors of Cannes and Venice, Thierry Frémaux and Alberto Barbera. “We all stand together to support movie theaters. Because without cinemas, film festivals would be something else.” dpa
