According to Iraf News Agency, citing ISNA, the Berlin International Film Festival announced that the film; “No Good Men Exist” directed by Shahrbanoo Sadat, Afghan female filmmaker, will be the opening film of the 76th Berlin Film Festival.
The film, a co-production of Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, and Afghanistan, is a political and human story about the lives of women on the eve of the Taliban’s return to power.
This selection, considered an unprecedented move in the history of the Berlin Festival, will have its world premiere on February 12, 2026, at the Berlinale Palast.
The story of “No Good Men Exist” takes place in Kabul and focuses on the life of a young television reporter who tries to balance her emotional life and political beliefs as the Taliban approaches power.
Shahrbanoo Sadat not only directed the film but also plays the lead role, alongside Anwar Hashimi. The film is based on real events and is the third part of a five-part series based on Hashemi’s biographical writings.
Tricia Tatler, director of the Berlin Film Festival, described Shahrbanoo Sadat as one of the most exciting voices in today’s world cinema, saying that with “No Good Men Exist,” she continues her critical path in highlighting the lives of Afghan women.
According to the Berlin Festival, films by Iranian filmmakers have been accepted into the “Fórum” and “Panorama” sections, including “Cesarine’s Weekend” by Mohammad Shirvani, “Fruits of Despair” by Nima Nassaji, “Roya” by Mahnaz Mohammadi, and “Love Your Nails!” by Narges Kalhor.
A press conference to announce the full list of films, including the main competition section of the 76th Berlin Film Festival, will be held soon.
