THE BERLINALE
The Berlinale, the International Berlin Film Festival is one of the largest events in Germany, a host of stars, producers and directors descend upon the city in February to take part in screening competitions.  What stands the Berlinale out from other film festivals is that this festival is open to the public.

The Berlinale is attended by over 20,000 professionals and 130 countries, and is held over many venues across the city centre.  Attendees have the opportunity to engage in discussions with directors and producers and ask questions about some of the showcased films. 

Berlinale 2009 jury was presided by academy award winner Tilda Swinton.  The golden bear award for best motion picture is the most coveted award of the festival, this year it was awarded to a Peruvian film, The Milk of Sorrow; previous UK winners include In the Name of The Father from 1994 and Bloody Sunday from 2002, directed by Jim Sheridan and Paul Greengrass respectively.