Luxembourg City, the bustling capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, recently concluded its 14th edition of the Luxembourg City Film Festival. Running from February 29 to March 10, this year’s festival showcased a remarkable lineup of films and welcomed special guests from the film industry. The festival, which has become a key player in the country’s burgeoning film industry, awarded a total of nine prizes to deserving winners.
One highlight of the festival was the tribute paid to actor-director Viggo Mortensen. His latest film, “The Dead Don’t Hurt,” in which he also wrote and starred alongside Vicky Krieps, was screened after the awards ceremony. Mortensen expressed his gratitude to the Luxembourgish audiences who attended the festival.
The festival kicked off by presenting the youth-oriented awards, with select school classes chosen as judges for this year’s selection. The Youth Jury Prize by Kinepolis, which came with a €2,000 endowment, was awarded to Lina’s powerful account of Syria’s descent into civil war.
The Audience Award, sponsored by Orange and selected by festival attendees, recognized the film that resonated the most with Luxembourgish viewers. Additionally, the 2030 Award, presented by Luxembourg Aid & Development, highlighted films that powerfully illustrate issues of development or a director connected to the partner countries of the Luxembourg Cooperation.
The FIPRESCI Award, an internationally renowned prize presented by a panel of critics, recognized outstanding films from around the world. The Documentary Award, presented by BGL BNP Paribas, was dedicated solely to documentaries. Finally, the Grand Prix, chosen from the festival’s official selection by a prestigious panel of judges, including American director Ira Sachs and Luxembourgish actress Vicky Krieps, was the pinnacle of the awards.
Special mentions were also given to Luna Carmoon for her directorial work in “Hoard” and Kauan Alvarenga for his performance in “Toll,” directed by Carolina Markowicz. The FIPRESCI Award, in particular, was unanimously agreed upon by the panel of critics.
As the festival concluded, Luxembourgish audiences were given the opportunity to watch some of the winning films, including “Reas” and “Terrestrial Verses,” at Cinémathèque on Sunday. Viggo Mortensen, together with Vicky Krieps, took to the stage one more time to present their film and extend their well wishes to the audience.
With its remarkable attendance, diverse film selection, and star-studded guest list, the 14th edition of the Luxembourg City Film Festival undoubtedly proved to be the most spectacular edition yet. The festival’s dedication to showcasing exceptional films and fostering talent in the industry continues to solidify its status as a vital player in the Grand Duchy’s growing film landscape.