The upcoming Berlin Film Festival promises an intriguing and eclectic main line-up, featuring a variety of films that touch on a range of genres and themes. Pepe, the hippopotamus who once belonged to Colombian druglord Pablo Escobar's private menagerie, will take center stage alongside a selection of science fiction movies. The Berlinale, which typically showcases politically charged films, is taking a step back from current global issues and instead opting for a diverse array of compelling stories. One of the highlights of the line-up is La Cocina, a film directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios and starring Rooney Mara.

The movie offers a unique perspective on the hectic lunchtime rush in a New York City kitchen. Additionally, Hong Sang-soo's A Traveler's Needs, featuring acclaimed actress Isabelle Huppert, offers a nuanced portrayal of human relationships. Festival director Carlo Chatrian explained that the film strikes a delicate balance between lightheartedness and piercing insights. Another standout film in the festival's roster is Another End, directed by Piero Messina. This thought-provoking science fiction narrative explores the concept of finding solace in surrogates for the deceased and boasts a star-studded cast including Gael Garcia Bernal and Renate Reinsve.

In total, 20 films will compete for the prestigious Golden Bear award, with a jury headed by esteemed actress Lupita Nyong'o. The festival will also feature Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve in Aaron Schimberg's A Different Man, a story following a man's journey to recovery from illness in New York City. The festival's opening film, Small Things Like These, directed by Tim Mielants and starring Cillian Murphy, offers a historical drama set in rural Ireland, shedding light on religious oppression.

Though the festival is largely focused on entertainment, it also features thought-provoking documentaries such as Victor Kossakovsky's Architecton, which delves into humanity's impact on a changing planet through the lens of cement production. While the festival aims to provide a diverse and engaging line-up, it has not been without controversy. At least one film has withdrawn from a specialist competition in protest of Germany's stance on the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

However, festival director Carlo Chatrian remains optimistic, stating that there has been no indication of a widespread boycott from filmmakers in the main programme. The 72nd Berlin Film Festival is set to be a celebration of innovation and diversity in storytelling, offering audiences a wide range of thought-provoking and entertaining films to enjoy.