Locarno Film Festival Awards Honor Șerban, Bellucci, Hong Sangsoo

The 79th Locarno Film Festival concluded its 2024 edition by awarding the prestigious Pardo d’Oro, its highest honor, to Florin Șerban's drama "You Don’t Belong Here" (Nu E Locul Tau Aici). This marks a significant return to feature filmmaking for the acclaimed Romanian director, who had not released a feature film in eight years. The winning film is described as a father-and-son drama, delving into complex familial relationships.

Beyond the top prize, the festival recognized a range of international cinematic talent. The Pardo per la Regia (Leopard for Best Director) was awarded to Hong Sangsoo for his film "The Shifting" (The Day the Sky Fell), further cementing his reputation as a prolific and distinctive voice in contemporary cinema. The festival also presented a special Pardo d’Onore (Leopard of Honour) to Italian actress Monica Bellucci, celebrating her extensive and impactful career in film. This lifetime achievement award acknowledges her contributions to cinema across numerous international productions and her enduring presence as a global film icon.

The festival, held annually in Locarno, Switzerland, is a significant event in the international film calendar, known for showcasing both established auteurs and emerging filmmakers. This year's edition featured a diverse program, reflecting a commitment to a broad spectrum of cinematic styles and geographical origins. The jury's selections for the various awards highlight a blend of critical acclaim and artistic merit, aiming to bring attention to films that might otherwise struggle for wider distribution or recognition.

Other notable awards included the Grand Prix of the Jury, which went to "The Village" (La Colline), directed by a collective of filmmakers, and the Pardo per la Migliore Interpretazione (Leopard for Best Performance) which was shared by two actors: Marta Nieto for her role in "The Quiet" and Antonio de la Torre for his performance in "The Last Days of January." The Pardo per la Migliore Interpretazione (Special Jury Award) was given to "The Last Days of January" (El Último Viaje del Janerio), directed by Lino Escalera, further underscoring the festival's dedication to recognizing strong acting performances. The festival's commitment to fostering dialogue and appreciation for global cinema was evident in the breadth of films and filmmakers honored across its various competitive sections.