Family Members Secure the Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival

The 82nd Venice International Film Festival concluded today in an Italian city, marking the end of a week-long celebration of cinematic artistry. The event saw a diverse array of films and filmmakers recognised for their contributions to the industry, with several awards dedicated to shining a light on pressing global issues.

Jim Jarmusch, an American filmmaker, took home the top prize for his dramatic comedy, thanking the jury for the recognition. In his acceptance speech, he praised Italy's cultural figures and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share his work with the world.

The film at the heart of Jarmusch's award-winning film is based on several hours of recordings made by a girl before her tragic death. The movie tells a poignant story that resonated with the jury and festival-goers alike.

Several filmmakers who received awards during the ceremony ended their speeches with "Long live Palestine!" or "Free Palestine!", drawing attention to the ongoing conflict in the region. Kaouther Ben Hania, a Tunisian director, dedicated her award to those fighting for the Palestinian people, further emphasising the importance of the cause.

Anuparma Roy, an Indian director, also expressed special support for the Palestinian people in her speech, having won Best Director for 'Songs of Forgotten Trees'. Meanwhile, Nastia Korkia, a Russian-born director, criticised the invasion of Ukraine during her acceptance speech for the Future Lion Award for the film "Short Summer."

The Lion of Career was awarded to German filmmaker and writer Werner Herzog and American actress Kim Novak, recognising their significant contributions to the film industry. Gus Van Sant and Julian Schnabel also received career special prizes.

Benny Safdie won the Silver Lion for Best Director for 'The Smashing Machine', a wrestling drama that captured the attention of the jury. 'El camino', by David Pablos, won the Best Film award in the 'Horizons' section, while 'Sotto le Nuvole' by Gianfranco Rosi received the Special Jury Prize.

Akio Fujimoto's 'Harà vatan (Lost Land)', a film depicting the suffering of the Rohingya people, received a special prize in the 'Horizons' section. Valerie Donzelli and Gilles Marchand won the Best Screenplay Award for the film "À Pied d'Oeuvre."

American filmmaker Alexander Payne presided over the jury for the festival, ensuring a fair and thoughtful selection process. A group of Italian activists, professionals, and journalists launched an open letter calling on the festival to condemn the agony of a genocide being perpetrated by the State of Israel, adding a political dimension to the event.

The news was updated at 21:33, marking the end of another successful Venice Film Festival. The event served as a platform for diverse voices and important issues, making it a memorable and impactful event for all involved.