Berry Wilde

Synopsis
As the day of the family photo approaches, panic sets in because there’s something the family doesn’t know yet: Barbara is Berry and non-binary. What’s more, the long hair that her parents always loved is now gone. The image of their daughter in a floral dress hasn’t really been Berry for a long time, or perhaps never was. Except that one time a year, for the sake of Mom and Dad. The family gathering becomes a nightmare, and coming out feels like holding a sword of Damocles over Berry’s head, with the implication of “always having to be different…” hanging over them. The film takes us on a journey of identity and embodiment, constantly torn between anxiety and finding a sense of belonging within the community. Queer pride! It might sound like a party, with lots of glitter and a certain lightness, but the everyday challenges and realities of life don’t necessarily reflect that, especially from a global perspective. Being honest with oneself and accepting the fact that one doesn’t fit into preconceived categories is an immense challenge, ultimately revolving around the search for love, freedom, and happiness. Berry Wilde is an ode to the community as a safer space, but also painfully points out the fear of rejection and the potential misunderstanding from those we love the most. As an activist manifesto and metaphorical narrative, the film not only portrays the inner struggles of many but also opens up space for queer utopias. Through its poetic language, Mika Aloisia Sattler takes us on a journey of turmoil, raising questions about the challenges of identity search and societal norms. “Take care of yourself, the time has come”!
(Text: Julia Sprenger)
Best LGBT Film
Best First Short Film