Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic — The 59th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival concluded Saturday with Miro Remo’s Better Go Mad in the Wild taking the Grand Prix – Crystal Globe, the festival’s highest honor. Stellan Skarsgård was also recognized with the KVIFF Crystal Globe Award for his significant contributions to global cinema. The Special Jury Prize was awarded to Iranian filmmaker Soheil Beiraghi for his film Bidad (Outcry), a decision deliberately delayed for the safety of the cast and crew.
The jury this year, featuring members such as Nicolas Celis and Tuva Novotny, praised Better Go Mad in the Wild as “a funny valentine to the fading art of being true to yourself.” They described the film as a portrait of twin brothers leading a quirky, off-the-grid lifestyle who, amidst the chaos of the modern world, embody a sense of sanity. The jury lauded the film’s inventive approach, calling it “a gulp of fresh, woody air.”
Regarding Bidad, they acknowledged its compelling narrative and genre transitions, stating that it showcases a young girl’s defiance against Iran’s stringent regulations as she sings in the streets. The film was highlighted for its unpredictable storytelling and mix of social justice, family dynamics, and a vibrant romantic narrative, delivering a message of resilience and hope.
Top director accolades were given to Vytautas Katkus for The Visitor, his feature directorial debut, and Nathan Ambrosioni for Out of Love. The jury commended Katkus for his unique vision and meticulous detail, reminiscent of a creative freedom often found in debut films. They also praised Ambrosioni for his emotional depth in crafting Out of Love, noting the impressive performances from the diverse cast.
In acting awards, Pia Tjelta won best actress for her performance in Don’t Call Me Mama, while Àlex Brendemühl took home the best actor award for his role in When a River Becomes the Sea. Kateřina Falbrová received a special mention for her work in Broken Voices, a film tackling themes of sexual abuse.
The Právo Audience Award went to We’ve Got to Frame It! (A Conversation With Jiří Bartoška in July 2021), honoring the insights from the late KVIFF president who passed away recently.
The Proxima competition recognized Mahde Hasan’s Sand City, a poignant exploration of life in urban Bangladesh. The jury noted the film’s artistic depth and mystique, emphasizing how it presents a cinematic vision that blends the strange with the intimate. A Special Jury Prize was awarded to Federico Atehortúa Arteaga’s Forensics, which addresses the theme of missing persons through an experimental lens.
Before/After, directed by Manoël Dupont and delving into themes of identity, earned a special mention in the Proxima category.
Additional awards supported the diversity of films featured at KVIFF, including the Europa Cinemas Label for the best European film, won by Broken Voices, and the Fipresci Award which recognized Before/After. Max Walker-Silverman’s Rebuilding, which stars Josh O’Connor, won the Grand Prize of the Ecumenical Jury, signifying the film’s impact.
The 2025 Karlovy Vary festival began with a vibrant celebration that included KVIFF President’s Awards for Peter Sarsgaard and Vicky Krieps, alongside a concert performance by British band La Roux.
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