Overview
- In a Monday interview, Tuttle said Wim Wenders’ opening‑day answer was taken out of context and warned that selective soundbites and “gotcha moments” risk weakening the festival.
- The festival issued a two-part statement Saturday defending its jury and guests and asserting that artists should not be expected to comment on every political topic.
- Wenders’ remark that filmmakers should “stay out of politics” prompted backlash and intensified press questions about Gaza, with several high‑profile attendees declining to engage.
- Author Arundhati Roy canceled her visit and publicly rebuked the stance, elevating a wider debate over whether public silence by artists is itself political.
- Organizers pointed to a 278‑film lineup tackling war, genocide, corruption and state power as evidence of political engagement on screen, with the festival continuing through February 22.