Montreal, Canada — The independent film “Mother of Flies,” crafted by the Adams family, earned the prestigious Cheval Noir Award for Best Film at the 29th Fantasia Film Festival. This marks the first time a U.S. film has claimed this honor during the festival’s history.
“Mother of Flies,” which garnered attention prior to the festival after being acquired by Shudder, features a creative team that includes John Adams, Zelda Adams, and Toby Posner as co-writers and directors. The film also showcases performances from the Adams family, including the couple’s daughter, Lulu Adams. Festival attendees have described it as one of the most talked-about films of the event.
The jury for the Cheval Noir, led by president Pascal Plante, acknowledged the film’s heartfelt and genuine approach, stating its importance in reminding audiences of the core reasons for filmmaking. “This film may not boast extravagant resources or flashy visuals, but it resonates deeply,” Plante noted.
In addition to “Mother of Flies,” the jury recognized Japanese filmmaker Yuta Shimotsu for his movie “New Group,” awarding it a Special Mention for Best Film. Indonesian director Hadrah Daeng Ratu was given the Best Director accolade for “The Book of Sijjin and Illiyyin.”
The festival’s awards ceremony took place at the bustling Cinéma du Musée in Montreal, where Mitch Davis, Fantasia’s artistic director, presented over 50 awards across various categories. These honors encompassed both international and Canadian films, highlighting the festival’s commitment to diverse storytelling.
Among the winners, Alexander Ullom’s “It Ends” stood out, receiving the Best Film award in the New Flesh Competition for Best First Feature. This film has recently gained a reputation for its innovative approach to genre, exploring existential themes through a contemporary lens.
The jury for the New Flesh Competition commended “It Ends” for its ability to blend thrilling elements with poignant reflections on friendship and solitude. They praised Ullom for delivering a work that skillfully navigates complex themes, a feat typically challenging for even experienced filmmakers.
The accolades continued for Canadian talents, with Chloé Cinq-Mars recognized as the Best Director for her film “Peau À Peau” (“Nesting”). Simon Glassman also received a Special Jury Mention for his work on “Buffet Infinity,” further showcasing the talent emerging from Quebec.
The Quebec Association of Film Critics awarded Laura Casabe’s “The Virgin of the Quarry Lake” for its nuanced exploration of coming-of-age narratives intertwined with the horrors of modern life. The film received praise for its symbolism and strong performances.
Overall, the 2025 Fantasia Film Festival celebrated a wide array of films and filmmakers, reaffirming its position as a significant cultural event in the world of cinema. A detailed list of winners and their respective categories has been provided, emphasizing the festival’s dedication to recognizing both established and emerging talent in the film industry.
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