European Film’s Rising Stars Set to Shine at Berlin Film Festival

Berlin – European Film Promotion (EFP) has unveiled its highly anticipated list of emerging acting talents, the “European Shooting Stars” of 2026. The ten actors, hailing from across the continent, will be showcased to the international film industry during the Berlin International Film Festival (February 12-22), offering a crucial platform for launching their careers onto a global stage.

A Legacy of Launching Luminaries

Now in its 29^th year, the Shooting Stars program has become a cornerstone for identifying and nurturing European cinematic talent. It’s a track record that speaks for itself. Previous Shooting Stars have gone on to achieve international acclaim, including names like Daniel Craig, Nina Hoss, Daniel Brühl, Andrew Scott, Carey Mulligan, and most recently, Leonie Benesch. The program doesn’t just offer exposure; it provides a network and a springboard for these actors to navigate the complexities of the film world.

Spotlight on the Class of 2026: A Diverse Cohort

This year’s selection reflects the rich diversity of European cinema, showcasing performers from a wide range of backgrounds and with varying levels of experience. Among the ten chosen, several have already begun to make waves with critically acclaimed performances.

Representing Kosovo and Albania is Fatlume Bunjaku, who earned recognition for her debut in the short film Rrota and has since delivered compelling performances in The Albanian Virgin (2021) and Hana (2025). Her work is a testament to the growing strength of filmmaking in the Balkans.

From Belgium comes Violet Braeckman, an actress with experience spanning theatre, television, and film. She’s garnered attention for her roles in Heysel 85 (2026) and First Zone (2026), and is set to appear in the fantasy drama The Age of Magic (2026).

The Netherlands is represented by Joes Brauers, who began acting at the age of eight and has already appeared in the Oscar-nominated Quo vadis, Aida? (2020) and Youri (2026). His early start and consistent work ethic demonstrate a dedication to the craft.

France and Beyond: A Wave of New Talent

French actor Salif Cissé has quickly become a name to watch, earning a César nomination for his performance in All Hands on Deck (2020) and appearing in the breakout Cannes hit Meteors (2025). His versatility is evident in his roles across comedy, drama, and television, including a part in the popular Netflix series Lupin (2023).

Portugal’s Cleo Diára received the best performance honor at Un Certain Regard in Cannes for her starring role in I Only Rest in the Storm (2025). She’s also set to appear in the upcoming Prime Video series Lisbon Noir, further solidifying her rising profile.

Austria’s Lucas Englander brings a trans-Atlantic perspective to the group, having worked on both European and U.S. productions, including Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers (2025) and Sky/Peacock’s The Day of the Jackal.

The Importance of Supporting Emerging European Cinema

The European film industry, while vibrant, often faces challenges in gaining international recognition compared to its Hollywood counterpart. According to Statista, the European box office generated approximately 6.7 billion euros in revenue in 2022, a significant figure, but still dwarfed by the North American market. Programs like European Shooting Stars are vital in bridging this gap, providing a platform for European talent to connect with global audiences and industry professionals.

Ireland’s Danielle Galligan, known for her role in The House of Guinness (2025) on Netflix, and Italy’s Tecla Insolia, who has been gaining attention for her performances in Familia (2024) and L’Albero (2024), round out the impressive lineup. Norway’s Sofia Tjelta Sydnes, featured in Netflix’s Midsummer Night (2024) and set to appear in Ruben Östlund’s The Entertainment System is Down, adds another compelling voice to the mix. Finally, Germany’s Enno Trebs, known for his collaborations with Christian Petzold, will star in Echo of Tomorrow’s War (2026).

The European Shooting Stars program isn’t just about celebrating individual talent; it’s about fostering a thriving European film ecosystem. By investing in these emerging actors, EFP is investing in the future of European storytelling, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives continue to enrich the global cinematic landscape.