The 66th Berlin International Film Festival was held from 11 to 21 February 2016, with American actress Meryl Streep as the president of the jury.

[1][2] The Honorary Golden Bear for lifetime achievement was presented to German cinematographer Michael Ballhaus.

[3] Hail, Caesar!, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, was selected to open the festival.

[4] The Golden Bear was awarded to the Italian documentary Fire at Sea, directed by Gianfranco Rosi, which also serves as closing night film.

[5][6][7] The following films were selected for the main competition for the Golden Bear and Silver Bear awards:[12][13][14] The following films were selected to be screened out of competition:[4][14] The following films were selected for the Panorama section:[15][16][17] The following films were selected for the Panorama Dokumente section:[15][16][17] The following films were selected to be screened as part of Teddy Award's 30th anniversary celebration:[15] The following films were selected for the Berlinale Special section:[12] The following prizes were awarded:[3][5][6][18][19][20][21]