The Berlin International Film Festival has found itself in the midst of political controversy over its decision to withdraw invitations from local politicians with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The festival’s decision to withdraw the invites from the far-right politicians came after public outcry and international criticism. In Berlin, it prompted a debate that has partly overshadowed the focus on upcoming films at the festival, widely known as the Berlinale. Festival organizers wrote that many AfD politicians have views that are contrary and hostile to the fundamental val…