À voix basse, by Leyla Bouzid, Selected for the Berlinale
By Tunez Magazine ·
The film À voix basse by Leyla Bouzid has been selected for the official competition of the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale 2026. The festival takes place from February 12 to 22, 2026. As a result, the Tunisian director’s latest feature joins an international lineup of films competing at one of the world’s major cinema events.
The first competition announcements highlighted a diverse range of stories and filmmaking styles. They also revealed a notable presence of French and Francophone cinema. In this context, À voix basse joins films by directors from Europe, Africa and other parts of the world.
For Leyla Bouzid and her collaborators, the selection marks an important step in the film’s journey. The Berlinale gives filmmakers an opportunity to present their work to international audiences. It also brings together critics and industry professionals. Consequently, the festival can help films reach viewers beyond their countries of origin.
Leyla Bouzid’s À voix basse also has a deeply personal dimension. The director has spoken emotionally about her mother, Najette Khefacha, who passed away before production began. Her memory adds another layer of meaning to the project. It also gives this moment in Bouzid’s career a personal significance.
Meanwhile, the film’s selection draws attention to Tunisian cinema on the international stage. Tunisian filmmakers continue to explore themes such as identity, family, memory and social change. Through different styles and perspectives, their films reflect the experiences of contemporary Tunisian society.
International festivals also help bring these stories to wider audiences. By presenting films from different countries, they encourage cultural exchange and introduce viewers to new perspectives. For Tunisian filmmakers, these events can create opportunities for greater international visibility.
For Bouzid, the Berlinale offers another opportunity to present her work to an international audience. The selection of À voix basse places her film alongside productions from around the world. In doing so, it highlights the role of contemporary cinema in connecting different cultures through personal stories and shared experiences.