CANNES, France — Four films supported by BBC Film captured attention at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, each earning accolades from the jury. The lineup included three debut features created by UK filmmakers, showcasing a mix of narratives that explore familial relationships, identity, and personal struggles.
Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” received the prestigious Grand Prix award, highlighting its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics. The film stars Renate Reinsve, Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Elle Fanning, drawing audiences into a story of complex relationships marked by unexpected reconnections.
Akinola Davies Jnr’s “My Father’s Shadow,” the director’s first feature, was honored with a Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or. The narrative follows two young brothers, Remi and Akin, as they navigate a day with their estranged father in Lagos. Through their journey, the film captures the societal challenges of 1993 Nigeria amid the backdrop of a pivotal presidential election. Davies collaborated with Wale Davies on the screenplay, building on their successful past work, which received accolades at Sundance.
Harry Lighton’s “Pillion,” another debut feature, won the Best Screenplay award in the Un Certain Regard category. This provocative romance stars Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling, weaving a tale of transformation as a shy man becomes enmeshed in the world of a captivating biker. The screenplay, developed in association with BBC Film, is adapted from Adam Mars-Jones’ prize-winning work.
Frank Dillane was celebrated with the Un Certain Regard Best Actor award for his compelling performance in “Urchin,” directed by Harris Dickinson. The film follows a rough sleeper in London grappling with inner demons as he strives for redemption. Dillane’s portrayal, alongside an ensemble cast, brought significant attention to this raw narrative about resilience and hope.
Eva Yates, the director of BBC Film, expressed pride in the recognition of all four projects. She emphasized the importance of independent storytelling, particularly from UK-based filmmakers, and praised the emotional depth of “Sentimental Value.” Yates acknowledged the hard work and passion that went into developing these diverse films that resonate with both local and global audiences.
Each of these films not only reflects individual artistic visions but also highlights the increasing visibility of British cinema on international platforms like Cannes. The recognition received this year signals a promising trajectory for emerging filmmakers and enriching narratives that speak to audiences worldwide.
This year’s festival showcased films rich with originality and poignancy, reaffirming the significance of diverse storytelling in today’s cinematic landscape. As the filmmakers continue to gain recognition, their work illustrates the power of cinema to foster understanding and connection among viewers.
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