With the theme of 70-mm film, the pioneering power of wide format film and vastly improved sound are the focal point the Retrospective of the 59th Berlin International Film Festival. The programme of 22 feature-length films in the International and Cinestar 8 cinemas will be supplemented by a side programme, in which international guests can explore the historical effects and contemporary aspects of the subject. In our interview, the director of the Retrospective Rainer Rother talks about the unique qualities of the format, the film selection process and the direction the panel discussions will take  

“We function as a unique communication platform for young filmmakers from around the world. We offer them the opportunity to work together with other filmmakers and make new contacts.” Project manager Christine Tröstrum and programme manager Matthijs Wouter Knol give a preview of the Berlinale Talent Campus 2009 with its theme “Suddenly it all happened – the turning point in close-up”  

Eating is a social act. We depend upon one another and live within networks not just of communication but also food chains. These networks have been destroyed: Every sixth person on earth suffers from hunger and at least as many are overweight. This is one of the bitter truths in the global dining room. The Culinary Cinema 2009 shows a selection of current documentaries on the theme of nutrition, health and the environment