Full Breakdown
Swiss Box Office Hit "Barry & Me" Secures International Distribution Ahead of Berlin Premiere
2/13/2026, 11:55:59 AM
Overview of "Barry & Me"
"Barry & Me," a Swiss-German co-production directed by Markus Welter, has garnered significant attention ahead of its market premiere at the Berlin Film Festival. The film, which has been a box office success in Switzerland since its release on January 14, has sold distribution rights to several international markets. Notable distributors include Estinfilm for the Baltics, Media Squad for Eastern Europe, Grand Entertainment for the Middle East, Big Rights for Spain, and Samuel Goldwyn Films for the United States. In Switzerland, the film is distributed by Wild Bunch, while Ascot Elite handles distribution in Germany, where it is set to be released next month.
Box Office Performance and Storyline
"Barry & Me" has achieved over 45,000 admissions in its second weekend, reflecting its popularity among audiences. The film draws inspiration from the Swiss legend of barrel-wearing rescue dogs that aided in avalanche rescues during the 1800s. It tells the story of a 12-year-old boy named Georg, who discovers and secretly raises a puppy in a mountain infirmary, leading to various adventures in the Swiss Alps.
Production and Support
The film is produced by Atlantis Pictures and MMC Zodiac and has received support from multiple organizations, including the Zürcher Filmstiftung, Deutscher Filmförderungsfonds, Film und Medienstiftung NRW, Bundesamt für Kultur, Filmförderungsanstalt FFA, Suissimage, Kanton Luzern, and the Valais Film Commission.
Director's Background
Markus Welter, who made his feature directorial debut in 2009 with "Im Sog der Nacht," has an extensive background in television and film. His previous works include directing the TV movie "Die Käserei in Goldingen" and the 3D horror feature "One Way Trip 3D." He has also been involved in shaping the hit SRF series "Der Bestatter," directing the first three seasons, and has worked on various other projects for Swiss television.
Upcoming Highlights
In addition to "Barry & Me," The Playmaker's slate at the Berlin Film Festival includes the sales launch of "The Unicorn That Said No," a 3D animated family feature based on Marc-Uwe Kling’s bestselling book.
As "Barry & Me" prepares for its international debut, it stands as a testament to the growing prominence of Swiss cinema on the global stage.
