Tom Tykwer: Germany’s Political Climate "Alarming," Democracy at Risk
Acclaimed German director Tom Tykwer has expressed deep concern over the current political mood in his homeland, describing it as "alarming."
"We sit there like plucked chickens, completely disheveled, overwhelmed by all the contradictions that have overwhelmed us in the last ten, twenty years," Tykwer told the Deutsche Presse-Agentur in Berlin.
The 59-year-old filmmaker, known for his films "Run Lola Run" and "Babylon Berlin," lamented the fragility of Europe and the challenges facing democracy today.
"Democracy is actually once again up for debate as an idea, or rather, it is being questioned," he said. "Ecologically, we are disconnected from any chance of keeping up with what is happening in nature."
Tykwer emphasized the danger of relinquishing control altogether. "I believe we are in great danger of completely letting go of the scepter," he said. "And the question is: Who will pick it up?"
The director pointed to the emergence of forces that seek to divide society, promoting exclusion and undermining cohesion.
"They do not see cohesion as a particular, foremost goal, but rather have a tendency towards exclusion and alienation," Tykwer observed. "And they submit to the advancing reign of the market and capital. It is shocking to me how many of us have surrendered to the idea that the free market is the greatest power constant in our present time."
Tykwer’s latest film, "Das Licht" (The Light), will open the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on Thursday evening. The film explores the life of a torn Berlin family whose lives are transformed by a Syrian housekeeper. The festival concludes on February 23rd, the day of Germany’s federal election.
"Das Licht" is Tykwer’s third opening film at the Berlinale, following "The International" (2009) and "Heaven" (2002). However, it marks his first German-language opening film.
"It’s the third opening film for me, but it’s actually the first film in German," Tykwer said. "The other two were in English or Italian."
The filmmaker expressed his pride in presenting a film that is deeply rooted in Berlin. "It comes from this city, it’s made by Berliners. In this sense, no film has ever been a better fit for the Berlinale."
Tykwer also praised the festival’s new director, Tricia Tuttle, calling her "a great gift to the city."
