Locarno

Sho Miyake’s ‘Two Seasons, Two Strangers’ Triumphs at Locarno Film Festival with Golden Leopard Win

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Locarno, Switzerland — Sho Miyake’s film “Two Seasons, Two Strangers” has clinched the prestigious Golden Leopard award at the Locarno Film Festival, taking top honors in the main International Competition. The film has garnered praise for its poignant narrative about the unexpected connection between two individuals by the ocean. Notably adapted from Yoshiharu Tsuge’s manga “Mr. Ben and His Igloo, A View of the Seaside,” the film has been distributed by Bitters End and has charmed critics and audiences alike with its insightful storytelling. The jury, led by Rithy Panh, also acknowledged the film “White … Read more

Rithy Panh to Lead Jury at 78th Locarno Film Festival, Championing Cultural Diversity in Cinema

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Locarno, Switzerland — Cambodian filmmaker Rithy Panh has been selected to preside over the jury at the upcoming Locarno Film Festival. Panh is set to lead the Concorso Internazionale jury, which is responsible for awarding the prestigious Pardo d’Oro, also known as the Golden Leopard. Festival director Giona A. Nazzaro praised Panh’s influence on cinema, highlighting him as a pivotal figure in 20th-century filmmaking. In a statement, Nazzaro noted that Panh’s unique vision has transformed contemporary filmmaking and has significantly impacted numerous directors worldwide. Nazzaro emphasized Panh’s authentic perspective as a witness to modern times, … Read more

Maha Haj’s ‘UPSHOT’ Triumphs at Locarno, Winning Top Auteur Short Film Honors

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Locarno, Switzerland – At the 77th Locarno Film Festival, Palestinian filmmaker Maha Haj’s latest short film “UPSHOT” garnered significant accolades, securing both the Pardino d’Oro Swiss Life for Best Auteur Short Film and the Junior Jury Award. The awards underscored the film’s profound impact at its world premiere, where it was featured in the Pardi di Domani – Corti d’Autore Competition. “UPSHOT,” distinguished for its poignant storytelling and compelling narrative, explores themes of human endurance and imagination amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflict. The film has elicited strong responses from audiences and critics alike for … Read more

Lithuanian Film ‘Toxic’ Claims Top Prize at Locarno Film Festival 2024, Highlighting Emerging Global Cinema

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Locarno, Switzerland – The 77th Locarno Film Festival culminated in a spectacular celebration of cinematic talent, with Lithuanian director Saulė Bliuvaitė’s feature debut “Akiplėša” (“Toxic”) clinching the prestigious Golden Leopard Award. The film, which delves into the unsettling realities of model agencies and teenage aspirations, stood out among its competitors at this international gathering. “Akiplėša” wasn’t the only Lithuanian film to gain critical acclaim at the festival. Laurynas Bareiša received the Best Director award for his work on “Seses” (“Drowning Dry”), a poignant narrative about two sisters grappling with a life-altering family loss. This film … Read more