Mads Mikkelsen at the 62nd Berlinale Closing Ceremony 18.02.2012

On the last day of the Berlinale Mads Mikkelsen was the star of the red carpet. It was a surprise for all the Berlinale Fans around the World. I had missed him on the official premiere night of “A Royal Affair” that he starred in. The movie is about King Christian the VII of Denmark and his affairs. More about the movie on the wikipedia link: THEWIKIPEDIALINK

MADS RETURNS THE PERMANENT MARKER!

 He was really nice! Mads was “The Star” of the closing ceremony. Mr. Mikkelsen was not in a rush and posed for every camera and signed every paper and photo that was placed before him! He was the poster boy for “How a Movie-Star should interact with Fans on the red carpet” He was aware that he had used a fans permanent marker (for signing autographs) and returned it to the rightful owner. He is one class act from Denmark!

This was the second time I had photographed at the Berlinale (As a Fan and without a pass). It was fun! The Berlinale committee sought out more than enough Stars for the Fans who look forward to standing in the cold in February to get a glimpse of the Stars in Berlin. Meeting people and sharing smiles is all part of it. I was happy to meet people I had met last year (61 Berlinale); I’m sure my Cumples will be there next year.

If you know you will be in Berlin in February, The Berlinale is worth experiencing!

I thank, Dieter Kosslick and his team as well as the City of Berlin who made the 62^nd Berlinale safe and Fan Friendly for all the frozen fans who look forward to the event.

BerlinBolide & Endings

Endings are sad! They are sad because we adapted ourselves to a routine and must leave it.  But is it really the end? Or, the beginning of something new! In a day, we probably end and begin countless of actions without knowing it. Change. That’s what it is! Change is good and necessary for our existence.

When we end a task we can feel proud of completing it. The experience gained is immeasurable. Unfinished or neglected projects will come back to haunt you. When a good movie, book, project or event comes to an end, we usually go through a reflection stage and the subconscious already has the next thing for you to do!

So, don’t waste anymore time. Pick up that book, go to the gym, and give up drinking alcohol. Opportunities are in abundance! Recreate yourself into how you imagine yourself. It’s hard work but all good things do not come easy! No Pain No Gain! And, finish all the food on your plate! Start from there!

Have a super Day,

Pete

“Bel Ami“ premiere at the 62nd Berlinale with Robert Pattinson, Christina Ricci & Holliday Grainger. 17.02.2012

Robert Pattinson loves his Fans! 62nd Berlinale. 17.02.2012

Hello there BerlinBolide Readers Around The World. The “Bel Ami” premiere was absolutely the biggest premiere at the 62^nd Berlinale because of one young actor from England, Robert Pattinson. Although the turn out was huge, Robert Pattinson went to the Fan section at the far end and started signing autographs and even posed with lucky Fans with their cell/handy cameras. He did not stop after a couple of minutes but went all the way to the other end of the Fans who were excitedly waiting for their moment with him. It was super! He spent about 15 minutes signing, maybe more.

Christina Ricci, Robert Pattinson & Holliday Gainger

The front photo I got, basically, describes the feeling if you go to a Robert Pattinson premiere. I did not try to make contact with him for a good shot because on two previous premieres I came out without success. He is there for his Fans! That’s a good rule for Stars!

Christina Ricci having a word with Robert Pattinson.

Robert Pattinson get's out of the valet & switched gears!

Christina Ricci looked absolutely fabulous in her shiny dress. And, in super shape! I was happy she dropped “BUCKY” for Robert! I was concentrating on getting her photograph at the premiere, as I never had the chance before.  Do you remember the movie “Monster” with Charlize Theron? Christina also starred in the movie. It was long ago but she went on to become a well-respected Hollywood actress. She, also, starred in The Adams Family and starred with Johnny Depp and many more.

Here’s a link on Wikipedia: CHRISTINARICCIWIKIPEDIALINK. Check it out!

Christina Ricci: Actress (U.S.A)

About the Movie

[BEL AMI is the story of Georges Duroy, who travels through 1890s Paris, from cockroach ridden garrets to opulent salons, using his wits and powers of seduction to rise from poverty to wealth, from a prostitute’s embrace to passionate trysts with wealthy beauties, in a world where politics and media jostle for influence, where sex is power and celebrity an obsession.] Taken from: http://www.magpictures.com/belami/

BerlinBolide & Education

After reading “About the Movie” I can’t help to write about the importance of education. Sure the world is upside-down at the moment because we are still children playing with toys. Technology is not being utilized to help us but to tease and brainwash those who have the money to buy the newest, coolest, gadget while the less fortunate become more envious and frustrated. How smart is that? Buying things that are probably oil based articles! We need more brains! Not new articles that will end up in the garage, basement or where ever you place the rejected toys that were once loved and cried for.

Through education, the young generation should be considerate to the planet. Go to school to learn something that will help the current state it’s in. Learning something that will make you a lot of money will only make you a slave. It is better to have less and know who you are, than rich, lonely and lost!

Remember, life is not out there somewhere; it’s deep inside you. The unconscious is very powerful! Find it and you’ll feel what living is about. Be good to yourself, to your family to your friends, to the planet and even to your enemies!

Have a great day,

Pete

“Haywire” Premiere at the 62nd Berlinale with Antonio Banderas, Michael Fassbender & Gina Carano. 15.02.2012

Michael Fassbender at t h e 62nd Berlinale

Dear BerlinBolide Readers Around The World, here are the “Haywire” premiere pictures I managed to scrape up after the “La Chispa de la Vida” premiere. My camera was on the brinks but it was still an exciting premiere at the Berlinale Palast location.  It was cold but dry . Antonio Banderas and Michael Fassbender, pulled together, called for one of the biggest premieres at the 62^nd Berlinale.

Here is the link to the “Official” Haywire movie: HAYWIREOFFICIALWEBSITELINK

BerlinBolide is about…? Not sure what it’s about but has some nice pictures!

Antonio spying on the Fans with squinted eyes!

When Antonio Banderas came out of the valet he was right away looking over the Fan section with squinting eyes taking it all in and probably planning his attack on us. Fans that is! He was absolutely in the moment. Micheal Fassbender and Antonio Banderas both created a joyful and memorable premiere with their easygoing nature and respect for the Fans who came out to see them.

Gina Carano. Gina…Carano. That’s Italian right? Yes it is but Gina is American with forefathers from Italy. Miss Carano, literally, fought hard for where she is at the moment. It was very interesting reading her biography and is a good roll model for girls growing up today. Here’s a link on Wikipedia: GINACARANOWIKIPEDIALINK.

She was a little cold in her mini dress but she still gave her two minutes to the Fans. Two minutes seems long to them and feels like a seconds to us Fans. The point is she gained many new Fans and followers. Because she was nice!

The premiere was so wild I did not have Steven Soderbergh & Natascha Berg in my view to get a really good photo.

Michael Fassbender was also really nice to us Fans! He signed and posed with Fans until the very last moment. Even during his interviews & press photo shooting he was connecting with the Fans. Michael & Antonio even put on a “Gun Fight at the Berlinale Palast”. They really created the tone of the premiere. It was fun, memorable and a pleasure.

Michael Fassbender strikes a pose for the press

Antonio & Michael get into a gun fight on the Red Carpet!

Just one of those days! Sometimes things don’t work out the way we want them to be. My camera was finished on that premiere. Many of the photos in this Blog are heavily cropped and filtered for Internet viewing with the exception of the portrait of Gina Carano. Thanks Gina!

Manual mode 125-160sec. At 2.8-4.5

Have a Super Day

Pete

Gina Carano: Mixed Martial Arts Fighter/ Actress (U.S.A.)

Salma Hayek in Berlin for the “La Chispa de la Vida” Premiere. 15.02.201

Salma Hayek: Actress, model, producer, director, Mexican-American.

Hello BerlinBolide Readers around the World. Here are the photos I got of the “La Chispa de la Vida” premiere. It was cold! I was at the Friedrichstadt Palast location early and to my surprise some friendly “Cumples”  (German for “Buddies”, not really friends) I had met at last year’ Berlinale, saved me a spot for me right next to the official press section. I was there two hours before the arrival of Salma Hayek. My Cumples were there 5 hours before!

Salma with The Press.

Being in the cold for so long damages the nerves! I remember on that day I had the Keanu premiere, the White Deer Premiere, over to the “La Chispa” premiere and to finish it off, back to the Berlinale Palast for the “Haywire” premiere with Antonio Banderas (my next Blog). When Salma was on the red carpet my camera was already at its end (cold and not functioning properly). My semi professional Canon camera does the job but it is not built for the cold. The lens is a Sigma 2.8 but sometimes the contacts give out and must fire on rapid mode to get the connection back. I usually clean the heads of both, lens and camera before a shooting. I hope to have a new Camera soon as I know, after more than 200K photos, something will snap! Besides the technical problems, I had the jitters (that’s when your really cold and can’t stop shaking). That’s not good for a photographer.

Salma Saying "Adios!" To the Official Press

Like I said, I was right beside the press section and was just concentrating on getting one good photo of Salma Hayek! I did and was surprised to see that I got many good photos that evening. I know the human spirit, when focused, can achieve more than we think. I believe human capabilities are limited because of barriers, rules and the environment we live in. It is only through experiences that we can overcome the pain to stay focused on the path. Concentration is an ability that requires training.

Salma Hayek was very natural! We see the actors on the big screen and wonder what they are like in real life. Salma did not act on the red carpet. She was herself. After reading about her on the net, I have become more of a fan  (I am a movie Fan but it does not interest me to know about the actors private life or present gossip)

Alejandro de la Iglesia: Director (Spain) "La Chispa de la Vida"

Alex de la Iglesia, the director, started out as a comic book artist! He is now a cult celebrity because of his weird scense of humour. In an earlier post, I had written that it is good to take pictures of persons on the red carpet even if you do not know them. Alejandro (Alex) was one of those I photographed with my “Find-Out-Later” rule. Good rule! Great shot! At first, the hand disturbed me, but after viewing it over and over again, it fits!

Jose Sanchez Mota: Comedian/ Actor (Spain)

Carolina Bang: Actress/Model (Spain)

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The “Find-Out- Later” rule was automatic for Jose Sanchez Mota & Carolina Bang! Jose Mota was a famous comedian for twenty years before going into movies. Before the being a famous comedian he was in the military. Carolina Bang was (is) a model. Although we dream of a privileged life like the stars we sometimes forget the hard work, dedication and focus they have. We all have the ability. It’s for everyone. It’s no secret!

Enjoy the Day,

Pete

“White Deer Plain“ Premiere at the 62nd Berlinale. 15.02.2012

Zhang Fengyi, Cheng Tai Scen, Guo Tai, actors (China) 15.02.2012

Kitty Zhang (actress, China) all smiles at the 62nd Berlinale

Liu Wei & Cheng Tai Shen having a liitle fun on the Red Carpet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The “White Deer Plain” premiere was a joy! All the actors were very kind to all the Chinese and non-Chinese Fans! That’s what festivals are about: to celebrate ones talent; braking borders, sharing a common feeling of peace.

Guo Tao: Actor (China)

Wu Gang: Actor (China)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The movie is about a seductive woman who comes between two families feuding over land set in twentieth century China. The movie is three hours long. The book is probably longer! Full review about the movie @ hkmdbnews.com

Ever since I can remember, Chinese movies have been on my movie menu. Before computers and Internet I can remember in the 70’s playing, “Kung Fu Movie” with my friends. That’s when you move your lips in one way, insulting your friends mother or sister “Out-of-Synch”, getting into some Kung Fu moves. The photos of Cheng Tai Shen, Wang Quan’an (director), Kitty Zhang, Liu Wei, Zhang Fengyi, Guo Tao and Wu Gang are special because I have seen most of them in movies but never remembered the names of the actors. Now, here they are for you and your friends on BerlinBolide. Life changes, everything is becoming more “In Synch”.

Zhang Fengyi: Actor (China)

Duan Yi Hong: Actor (China)

 

All of the actors were genuinely happy to be present at the 62^nd Berlinale. Their conduct on the red carpet was perfect! It was full of Chinese and non-Chinese Fans. All of the actors went to the Fans to give an autograph and even pose for photos. Even the actors themselves were into taking pictures of the red carpet ceremony. Why not? It’s fun!

 

 

Cheng Tai Shen: Actor (China)

“Dress to Kill” Chinese style! I imagine Hong-Kong’s high society, life style, discos and clubs to be full of well-dressed people with custom suits and designer gowns. Just like the movies! If, the Berlinale had an award for “The Best Dressed Acting Cast & Crew on the Red Carpet”, the winner would be “White Deer Plain”. All of the actors looked immaculate! Kitty Zhang’s blue and yellow dress was out of a fairy tale.

Duan YI Hong, Wang Quan'an, Liu Wei & Kitty Zhang getting ready for the press photos.

 

Fun on the Red Carpet! Kitty showing off her heater she received while Guo Tao strikes a pose!

Enjoy the photos,

 Pete

Michael Ballhaus captured digitally at the 62nd Berlinale

Michael Ballhaus attends "Side by Side" Premiere 15.02.2012

Michael Ballhaus a cinematographer,  producer, director and actor was seen at the “Side by Side” premiere at the Berlinale. Who is Michael Ballhaus and what is a cinematographer you ask?

A cinematographer is one photographing with a motion picture camera (the art and science of which is known as cinematography). The title is generally equivalent to director of photography (DP), used to designate a chief over the camera and lighting crews working on a film, responsible for achieving artistic and technical decisions related to the image. (First line in Wikipedia)

I often hear other Fans asking me who is that person! I sometimes ask the same question to other Fans, as well. My answer is always the same, “Just get the picture and figure it out later!” I say. I  keep practising my photography on  people who stand out on the red carpet and inform myself later. The addition of Mr. Ballhaus in BerlinBolide is a welcoming bonus! He is not in any tabloids or scandals like some Stars get into or need; he is a specialist working with his  artistic vision, on film.

I am guilty of not giving German actors & actresses attention on this site. Although Michael Ballhaus is not an actor, he is part of the movie scene! I have made a special article for him. Just because he was kind to the Fans and a famous cinematographer! If you take the time to read his biography you will surprised of all the projects he has work on and all the famous directors he has worked with. It’s worth a look!

At first he was with his fellow press photographers . Some  Fans knew him and he made his way to them.  He went the whole way for all those who knew him. The Fan section was happy!

At 77 he is an inspirational figure on the red carpet. Humble and caring!

Read full biography on  www.filmreference.com

Still on VAY-KAY (slang for vacation)

Pete

Keanu Reeves Attends the 62nd Berlinale. 15.02.2012

To all the Keanu Reeves Fans! Here are some photos of him when he attended the 62^nd Berlinale on February 15, 2012. Keanu did not star in Chris Kenneally’s film “Side by Side” but co-produced it and narrated the documentary film about film versus digital filming. I got there about 30 minutes before his arrival at the Festspiele location. It was mid afternoon, the same time fans were still in school or at work. All together there was about 200 Fans. He spent enough time with the press & his Fans. He even jumped the rope to get to a section of fans that he had missed! I have been a fan of Keanu Reeves ever since “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure”.

To The BerlinBolide Readers around the World! This BLOG (berlinbolide) started as a hobby in October 2010. I used it as a place to exhibit my photography of the famous people that come and go through Berlin. I mainly write about the day, the stars that attended the red carpet and how I got the shot. After 47 BLOGS (this is 48), It has become a little bit of a bore to continuously write about the weather! Being it a diary for moi, I will continue to write the small details, that I normally do for my record at the end of each BLOG or the beginning of it.

I know Internet Surfers are only looking at the photographs and that is why they return to BerlinBolide. I must admit that I am surprised of its success! It was never my goal to satisfy my ego with its statistics. I would like to start broadening my writing style to write about important things to think about. Topics such as: discrimination, Integration, Family, sociology, religion, politics, health & education. Living in Berlin, I can only write about my experiences that occur here. I find Berlin a very unique place as it does have a “Multi-Culti” (multi cultural) flair but lacks the international feeling with its citizens. Integration is top priority with the Government at the moment! Where to start? You start with the kids! I hope if you are still reading and have children to encourage them to start learning how to read English. That is my present goal. To have it child safe, educational, in easy written English for young people & adults alike.

I always wanted to be a press photographer before knowing what it was really about. Since adolescence, I was drawn to the pictures of the stars in the magazines. It was probably the same time I started using my Dad’ ASHAI! “How do they get those fantastic pictures?” I would say. I know now because I made it to the press; and like bolides made an exit! Some times the view is not what you had expected once reaching the summit! I was basically discriminated, mobbed, called a cheater and needed the help of a lawyer to receive my payment for my published photos (Yes, I won). My photo credits were not available. What does a freelance foreign photographer do? The press pass office does not issue press passes to freelance photographers. They only give passes to those who work with a media company. When I worked for the press it was not necessary to have a press pass because the agencies are connected! So, I ask myself! Why do they even have a department issuing press passes? I was turned down every year since 2008.

I do enjoy shooting the Stars and do it the hard way: without a press pass and without connections. I recently gave myself a title: “FAN-ARTIST”. I am hoping through this blog’s popularity, I will be able to attend more events to present in BerlinBolide. Such as: music concert, theatre, literature, and fashion.

 

“It’s a lot of work!” One photographer said to me recently at the ECHO AWARDS (to maintain a BLOG). He’s right. It is. I had told him about WORDPRESS and how easy it is just by using the basic features. Like everything, the beginning is the hardest part. What brings success is consistency and believing in yourself. Because of WORDPRESS and you, the fire to photograph still burns. And here, you may use the photographs for free on your site with a link to my site as a credit. I love to share. Sharing is part of the formula in making a better world, better self and a better BLOG.

“Excellent Dude!”

Sincerely,

Peter R. Miranda

P.S. This is the first time that “comments” are open. Please keep it child safe & intelligent!

62 Berlinale 14.02.2012: Meril Streep, Patton Oswalt & Jason Reitman

Jason Reitman, director (USA)

Hello BerlinBolide viewers around the world! Here are just a few shots of what I captured on Valentines Day at the Berlinale. I was interested in two premieres: “Young Adults”, directed by Jason Reitman, starring Patton Oswalt and CharlizeTheron. Miss Theron did not make the premiere but was not discouraged, as I had photographed her previously at the HANCOCK Premiere in 2008. The second premiere was “The Iron Lady” Starring Meryl Streep.

The “Young Adults” movie is about a 37 year old divorced woman who returns to her hometown in Minnesota looking to hook up with her ex-boyfriend who is happily married and has a newborn baby daughter! Take a look at the trailer…

The  “Young Adults” premiere was cosy! Everyone who made an effort to attend got a great view of Jason Reitman & Patton Oswald. It was cold and they had the official press photos indoors.

“The Iron Lady” premiere was at the Berlinale Palast location. It was one of the biggest premieres at the 62 Berlinale. How can it not be with a legendary actress? Meryl Streep.

The Iron Lady is a 2011 British biographical film based on the life of Margaret Thatcher, The longest serving Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of the 20^th Century. Meryl Streep portrays Margaret Thatcher. (Taken from wikipedia/The Iron Lady)

Here’s the trailer.

I was a little sad I did not get a good photo of Meryl Streep. The photo above is “Out-of-Focus”. Oh well! Can’t win them all!

Have a great day,

Pete

“Jayne Mansfield’s Car” Premiere at the 62 Berlinale with Billy Bob Thornton & John Hurt 13.02.2012

Billy Bob Thornton: Actor/Director

I just love the Berlinale! This year the regular fans mumble was” The Berlinale is not as good as last year”. Well, that’s what I heard last year. The weather was milder than last year; the stars were out to be seen.

Billy Bob Thornton’s film “Jayne Mansfield’s Car” was premiered at the Berlinale in which he directed and stars in. The movie is a comedy drama set in the 1960s.

John Hurt: Legendary Actor

I was in my usual spot about three rows back. When the valet car came there were Billy Bob Thornton and John Hurt. I thought it was nice they shared a valet! Sharing is a gift! Anyways, Billy Bob was opposite the fans and Mr. Hurt exited on our side. He was right in there giving out autographs smiling and, basically, enjoying the moment. I called him for a shot (I always set myself for one shot. That’s my game) took it and without seeing it I said to him “Got it! Thanks!” Reviewing the photo quickly I said right away “No! I didn’t get it!”(an embarrassing expression but focused) He was laughing and kindly posed for something a little more presentable. Thanks Mr. Hurt! (The voice of the dragon from Merlin. And, tons of other projects. Pure Legend)

Seconds later, Billy Bob sneaked up behind Mr. Hurt to give him a surprise ear pinch! It was my first attempt at getting a photo of Billy Bob and did not have the time to frame the picture with John Hurt in it. C’est la vie!

Billy Bob Thornton having a little fun with John Hurt's ear.

While Mr. Thornton gave out autographs, I was focused and concentrating for when it would be a good time for me to get into my gawk-er routine. I know my window of opportunity is open when I hear silence. It’s like I’m alone with the celebrity in the studio. Just for one! That’s the game remember? After getting a winner shot, I was thinking about the Santa hat that I had specially worn in honour of “Bad Santa”. Without fear I said to him “Hey Billy can you sign my Santa hat for me?” The fans were laughing who heard me. To their surprise,  he said he would come back to sign it. While I waited with my Santa hat in hand, I did not attempt to take anymore pictures. I knew I had super photos and was very happy. Like a true gentleman he came back commented how hard it was to sign a Santa hat with all the fluff; I said to him in one breath ,”It’s-a-must!” He looked over at John Hurt, laughed again, stretched the hat and signed it! I thanked him and he was of back to work on the red-carpet!

Thanks Billy Bob.

Christian Bale: Actor/Batman

Happy with the Premiere and heading home, autograph hunters were gathered at the neighbouring building. I asked one of them who is coming out? Christian Bale, “Oouu!” I said to myself. A bonus! He was all for the fans! He spent more time than I had expected. I tried to call him but  the silence was not to be heard. It didn’t bother me. I like to see the happy faces of others and take in the feeling of the atmosphere. The photo presented of Mr. Bale as you can see, is totally out of focus. Still presentable for Berlinbolide. Has that “Old School” black & white effect! I was wondering after seeing the photo (big), if he said to himself “Is that Santa?”

Enjoy the Day

Pete

DON2 Premiere: with Priyanka Chopra, Farhan Akhtar and A SRK Fan. 11.02.2012

Priyanka Chopra: Actress, India, Berlin 11.02.2012

When I think about the DON2 and how cold it was, I just cringe! The amount of SRK Fans that waited all day just to get a look at him was, at every event he attends, astounding. I got at the Friedrichstadt Palast, where the premiere was held, two hours before the arrival of SRK, Priyanka Chopra and Farhan Akhtar.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZcoEQ7dYuQ (German)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsHf2AQbZWY (Hindi)

The arrival of Priyanka was well known as the scream volume needle went directly to the far right without vibrating! I was prepared and waited for my chance to get some great shots of my fellow Indians. Perched upon my two-step ladder, I had a great view and knew I would get some memorable pictures for myself and for the fans around the world.

Priyanka looked absolutely gorgeous! If you think she looks gorgeous in the movies, make an effort to see her live! Better? Yes, she looks better live. She wore a lovely white sari that made her presence surreal. She looked like an Indian angel!

Farhan & Priyanka were very keen to give out autographs and spending time with the fans. The press coverage from around the world all got interviews and it seemed as if they were Bollywood fans them selves. When the press photos were finished for Priyanka and Farhan, the fans were all waiting for SRK.

Farhan Akhtar: Actor, India

We were waiting, waiting, and again, we waited. A man with a bullhorn appeared on the top of the landing and announced “SRK is at the airport but will make it to the opening in a couple of hours”. I was done! I could not stay any longer as my window of opportunity was closed. I have other responsibilities in life. I went home to have a hot chocolate and say “Goodnight” to my daughter who asked me if I got a good picture of SRK. I said, “He was coming later but I have nice pictures of Priyanka”. “That’s O.K” she said, “Priyanka is my favourite Bollywood actress”. Maybe next time SRK! It was the third time I missed photographing him. Funny thing is, it was never my fault!

A fan that waited all day with her self-painted SRK painting was all smiles as her dream came true. The Berlinale administration selectively picked her and presented her with a ticket to the premiere. Sometimes it pays to be patient! Or, young and wild!

DON 2 will be a smash hit! It already is. Let’s hope a DON 3 is being discussed and is in the planning phase.

Friedrchstadt Palast: Perfect place for an Indian premiere

NAMASTE!

Pete

62 Berlinale Opening Ceremony 09.02.2012

Dieter Kosslick warms-up the 62 Berlinale with Diane Kruger

The opening movie the 62nd Berlinale was “Farewell My Queen”, starring Diane Kruger as Marie Antoinette. On the Red Carpet, Miss Kruger spent plenty of time with the fans giving out autographs and posing for photos. She was elegantly dressed in black and had no fear of the sub-zero weather that hit Berlin a couple of weeks ago.

Diane Kruger with the Press

The weather did not bother BerlinBolide, as I was appropriately dressed for the cold. I thank Canada for teaching me “How to dress when it’s cold outside!” What bothered me, and I am sorry for publicly announcing, that the press photographers “Booed” Diane Kruger when she was done with the Red Carpet. I am purposely mentioning this rude behaviour to protect the fans. The fans greet all the stars with warm smiles and respect! The rest of the Berlinale I did not here any further “Booing” from the press section! I am assuming they were warned!

Dieter Kosslick, the Berlinale Director, was in high spirits on the Red Carpet! It’s his show after all and made it festive for Stars & Fans alike.

Sir Christopher Lee. Born, 1922 in London

A surprise at the opening is always welcome. This year, it was Sir Christopher Lee! Yes, Dracula! I was hoping for just one good picture of him. And got it! Dracula, I mean, Sir Christopher came out of the valet car and made sure every photographer in the fan section had a chance to photograph him. What a class act!

Jake Gyllenhaal: Actor/ 62nd Berlinale Jury Member

Jake Gyllenhaal, an American actor was also at the opening ceremony. He is part of the Jury for this year’s Berlinale. He was very kind to the many fans and spent enough time with them.

Sibel Kekilli: German actress of Turkish decent

Sibel Kekilli, a German actress of Turkish decent also made an appearance. I lately saw here in  “Game of Thrones” (British Series). She plays a seductress to the Royal Dwarf.

Mario Adolf: Actor

Veronica Ferres: Actress (Germany)

Nina Hoss & Natalia Wörner are "All Smiles"

German actors, Mario Adolf, Veronica Ferres, Nina Hoss, and Natalia Wörner were also present at the gala.

Huo Siyan: Actress (China)

My pick for “The best Look on the Red Carpet” was Huo Siyan an actress from China, who I came to know about at the 62 Berlinale. Now, so do you!

I was happy to take part in the opening as a fan! Festivals bring people together to enjoy and share one’s talent, meeting new acquaintances and creating beautiful memories.

Take Care,

Stay Warm,

Pete