The Ministry of Culture, the General Directorate of Cinema (DGCINE) and the Embassy of the DR in Germany announced the details of the selection of the Dominican film “Pepe” to participate in the 74th edition of the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
This historic nomination marks a milestone for Dominican filmmaking, as it is the first time a film from the country has taken part in the official competition of a festival in this category.
The Vice Minister of Creativity and Artistic Formation of the Ministry of Culture, Giovanni Cruz, said that “this nomination is a testament to the talent and creativity present in the Dominican film industry, and its inclusion in Berlinale is a significant achievement that opens a new chapter at the international level. As Dominicans, we should feel very proud”.
In turn, Marianna Vargas Gurilieva, general director of the DGCINE, stated that “this official selection is a transcendental achievement for national cinema. This recognition not only highlights the artistic quality, but also broadens the scope of our story, providing a unique opportunity to connect with global audiences and consolidate the presence of our cinema on the world film scene.”
The Embassy of the DR in the Federal Republic of Germany, in the person of its Ambassador Francisco A. Caraballo Núñez, will hold a meeting with important personalities from the world of cinema after the premiere of the film.
Ambassador Caraballo said that the Berlinale “is one of the most important and strategic festivals in the world, as it kicks off the year and marks the path for nominations, so being selected is in itself a great achievement that provides a unique platform for the film to shine and for the international audience to discover the richness and diversity of Dominican filmmaking”.
About “Pepe”
“Pepe” is the third feature film by Dominican director Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias. Shot in Namibia, Colombia and the DR, “Pepe” travels through an exuberant diversity that transpires in many languages, opening worlds and crossing rivers, reconciling us with our imagination.
Produced by Tanya Valette and Pablo Lozano of the Dominican company Monte y Culebra, this film is an international co-production with Namibia (Joe Vision), France (4 à 4 Films) and Germany (Pandora Film Produktion).
About the Berlinale
The Berlin International Film Festival, known as the Berlinale, is one of the world’s leading film events. Held annually in the city of Berlin, Germany, this event is known for being a Class A festival and one of the “Big Three”, along with Cannes and Venice.
The Berlinale is recognized for its focus on diversity and cinematic innovation, presenting a wide range of international films spanning diverse genres and styles.
The festival, which runs from February 15-25, is notable not only for its main competition, which includes the awarding of Berlin’s prestigious Golden Bear, but also for important sections exploring the cinematic avant-garde.
Source: Presidencia.gob.do
