Zurich, Switzerland – Rungano Nyoni’s cinematic piece, “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl,” clinched the prestigious Golden Eye for best film at the 20th installment of the Zurich Film Festival. The film, a masterful blend of surreal narrative and seriocomic elements set in Lusaka, Zambia, addresses complex themes of sexual abuse within a family context.
Following its successful premiere at the Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard section earlier this year, where Nyoni was awarded best director, the film consistentlly impressed global audiences and critics alike. The jury, headed by renowned filmmaker Lee Daniels, lauded “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl” for its exceptional cinematography and compelling sound design, complemented by remarkable performances that vividly brought the story to life.
The festival, which is a confluence of cinematic talent from around the globe, also recognized the powerful documentary “Black Box Diaries” by Shiori Itō. This fearless exploration into a personal pursuit of justice by Itō, who documented her own experiences following a sexual assault, resonated profoundly with the audience, earning it the best documentary and the audience award. The documentary is notable not only for its personal narrative but also for its broader commentary on systemic misogyny and the challenges faced by survivors in seeking accountability.
Swiss director Jasmin Gordon’s “Les Courageux” (The Courageous) also stood out, securing the critics’ award. The film tells the moving story of Jule, a single mother portrayed by Ophélia Kolb, as she navigates societal pressures while forming an unlikely and transformative bond with a Muslim woman, illustrating themes of resilience and cross-cultural friendship.
The festival’s gala night, hosted at the Zurich Opera House, included a spectrum of other accolades. Special honorary Golden Eye awards were presented to Jude Law and Pamela Anderson, acknowledging their continuous impact on the cinematic world. Additionally, Kate Winslet received a lifetime achievement award, recognizing her extensive contributions to film over the decades, alongside Swiss comedian Emil Steinberger.
Moreover, the industry-specific Game Changer Award was bestowed upon Roeg Sutherland, Co-Head of Media Finance at CAA, celebrating his influence on the business side of cinema that helps bring creative projects to global audiences.
The 20th Zurich Film Festival not only celebrated outstanding achievements in contemporary cinema but also highlighted important social issues through its platform, fostering a dialogue among creators and viewers alike. By putting a spotlight on both the artistic and undercover aspects of filmmaking, the festival continues to stand out as a significant event on the international film circuit, paving the way for future discussions and developments in the ever-evolving realm of movie-making.