12/01/2026
Within the framework of the partnership between Berlin International Film Festival, Berlinale Talents and CUPRA, 2026 welcomes an exciting new opportunity available to the Berlinale Talents community. The Dream Makers is an international short film contest by CUPRA in cooperation with Studio Babelsberg, to support the next generation of cinematic storytellers by enabling and financing the production of the winning project.
The application and selection process is facilitated by Berlinale Talents. Open to current and former Berlinale Talents participants and those of its Talents International initiatives, a shortlist of five finalists will be invited to Berlin by a jury of actor Daniel Brühl, director and producer J.A. Bayona, Managing Director of the subsidiary Studio Babelsberg Motion Pictures Marcus Loges, SEAT & CUPRA Chief Brand Officer Ignasi Prieto and Berlinale Festival Director Tricia Tuttle. The winner, announced at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, will receive full production funding (€180,000–€250,000), expert mentoring from industry leaders, plus access to Berlinale Talents events, festival accreditation and more.
"The name says it all, it is the dream of every aspiring director is to bring a film to life, so to help make it happen is wonderful. It is of utmost importance to give the future generation of filmmakers a chance to present their talent and to be seen, recognised and appreciated. Personally, I’m incredibly curious witnessing that process for I learn from these new voices, too. What do they want to express, what visions do they have? Making a film is an incredibly complex endeavour, challenges and problems can occur all the way through. Therefore it is great to offer support from A-Z, making sure that the mission will really be accomplished!"
- Daniel Brühl
"As a filmmaker, there’s nothing more exciting than nurturing emerging talent and guiding their ideas from the script to the big screen. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to learn from fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling.
CUPRA and I share a rebellious spirit, and that’s exactly what we’re eager to find in this new generation of filmmakers. We’re excited to discover their creativity and ambition as we kick off this new edition of The Dream Makers!"
- J.A. Bayona
Applications are open to Talents participants and alumni until January 13, 2026. For further details, head over to our website: bit.ly/BT_TheDreamMakers
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