Berlinale plans spotlight on indigenous cinema

The Berlinale has announced the first major focus of its 2013 edition, which will be a spotlight on indigenous cinema.

The special programme, NATIVE, will include milestones of indigenous filmmaking from around the world. Some of the curators and experts selecting the films will be of indigenous descent.

In addition to screenings, there will also be panel discussions and other events.

Other Berlinale sections will also include recent indigenous films in their programmes.

Festival director Dieter Kosslick said: “We wish to reveal the significance of indigenous film for cinematic art and, above all, for indigenous peoples. I’m pleased the Berlinale is taking this initiative and NATIVE will be able to unfold its great potential at the next Festival.”