Wim Wenders Defends Berlinale Remarks, Says Misquoted

At the Venice Film Festival, director Wim Wenders (81) defended his controversial statements made at the Berlinale, rejecting accusations of being apolitical. He claimed he was misquoted and clarified his original remarks: "We filmmakers are the opposite of politicians. We have empathy. Politics works without empathy, and that's all I said." During the Berlinale jury press conference, Wenders had answered a question about the Gaza war by saying filmmakers should "stay out of politics" because they are the "counterweight" to politics. This statement was shortened on social media, sparking debates, an open letter, boycott calls, protests, and statements throughout the festival. In Venice, Wenders reiterated his position, emphasizing that filmmakers work with the mindset of empathetic people and aim to change things, unlike politicians who confirm the status quo. He expressed hope that he would not be misquoted again. Wenders was in Venice to present his new 3D documentary "From Inside Out - The Architecture of Peter Zumthor," which explores the work of Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, including his renowned Therme Vals.