娱乐英语新闻:Box-office-hit "True Grit" opens Berlin Film Festival

Jeff Bridges, who acted in the Coen Brothers' "The Big Lebowski" when it came to Berlinale 13 years ago, said he felt that the movie had become such a success in the United States since "people are finally getting hip to how incredible the Coen Brothers are. They are the best filmmakers we have."

Beyond the buzz of opening night stars: William Hurt, Ralph Fiennes, Vanessa Redgrave, Kevin Spacey, Helena Bonham Carter and Collin Firth are all slated to make appearances.

American super star Madonna is expected to cause a stir at this year's European Film Market with her new project "W.E."

Another film making the news this year is Chinese director Chen Kaige's film "Sacrifice," which is included in the Berlin Special Gala screenings, but not in the main competition. The film plays on the tale that to save the only child of the Zhao Family, a doctor sacrifices his own son and later seeks revenge.

"Under the Hawthorn Tree," from former Golden Bear winner Zhang Yimou, will be shown as part of the Generation 14Plus section. The story, set during the Cultural Revolution in China, centers around a young couple whose relationship is deeply affected by their different economic backgrounds.

Other competition highlights include the American performance artist, Miranda July's film: "The Future," a story about the alienation of a couple told in an eccentric time-bending style.

Joshua Marston will screen his new film "The forgiveness of Blood." His film, "Maria Full of Grace" impressed audiences in 2004 at Berlinale.

Thirty five years after it's premiere, Martin Scorsese's classic "Taxi Driver" has a new 4K digital restoration and will play to new audiences at the Berlinale Special Programming. Paul Schrader, the screenwriter, will present this iconic masterpiece on February 17.