Palm Springs, California – The 35th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival recently concluded, revealing the winners of this year’s jury awards. One standout film, “Four Daughters,” took home the FIPRESCI prize, which recognizes films in the international film festival Oscar submissions program. Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, the film is also Tunisia’s official Oscar submission.
The jury statement praised “Four Daughters” for its unique approach to storytelling and its exploration of human complexity. Director Kaouther Ben Hania skillfully weaves together elements of fact, meta-fiction, and confessional therapy to create a powerful and thought-provoking film.
In addition to “Four Daughters,” other films were honored at the festival. “The Echo” received the award for Best Documentary, while “The Animal Kingdom” was recognized with the New Voices New Visions award, which celebrates the perspectives of first and second-time directors.
Powerful and socially relevant films were also acknowledged. “Power Alley” won the Ibero-American award for the best film from Latin America, Spain, or Portugal, while “Wonderland” received the Local Jury award for promoting understanding between people. The Young Cineastes award, presented by the festival’s youth jury, went to “Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person.” Additionally, the Mozaik Bridging the Borders award, which recognizes films that bring people closer together, was given to “Green Border.”
Notable performances were also recognized. “The Zone of Interest” received the FIPRESCI prize for Best International Screenplay, Leonie Benesch won Best Actress in an international film for her role in “The Teacher’s Lounger,” and Mads Mikkelsen took home the award for Best Actor in an international film for “The Promised Land.”
While the audience awards for Best Narrative Feature and Best Documentary Feature are still to be announced, the Palm Springs International Film Festival has already celebrated the talent and diversity showcased in this year’s lineup.
The 35th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival concluded with the announcement of the jury award winners. “Four Daughters” garnered attention as the FIPRESCI prize winner, while other films such as “The Echo” and “The Animal Kingdom” were also acknowledged. The festival served as a platform for recognizing outstanding performances by both established and emerging actors. As the festival wraps up, anticipation grows for the audience awards, which will reveal the audiences’ favorite narrative and documentary features. The Palm Springs International Film Festival once again highlighted the power of cinema to captivate and inspire audiences from around the world.