Chilean director Diego Cespedes won the prestigious Un Certain Regard award at the Cannes Film Festival for his debut feature, “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo.” The film, set in early 1980s Chile, explores the life of a queer family amidst the emerging AIDS epidemic. Accepting the prize, Cespedes reflected on the film’s deeper message, emphasizing that the award honors “that fear, that stubbornness to exist just as we are, even when it makes others uncomfortable.” This year’s Un Certain Regard competition was noted for its strong lineup of films, including impressive directorial debuts from notable actors such as Scarlett Johansson, Harris Dickinson, and Kristen Stewart.
Another standout in the category was “Once Upon a Time in Gaza,” directed by Palestinian twin filmmakers Arab and Tarzan Nasser. The film tells the story of a low-level drug dealer and his assistant in Gaza during the year Hamas took control. The Nassers earned the directing award for their powerful portrayal of life in the coastal enclave. Tarzan Nasser took a moment to address the audience, stating, “To everyone in Gaza, to every single Palestinian: your lives matter and your voice matters, and soon Palestine will be free,” a statement that brought a standing ovation from the crowd.
The runner-up Jury Prize went to Colombian director Simon Mesa Soto’s dark comedy “A Poet,” which offers a sharp exploration of the art world. Meanwhile, the best performance award was shared by Frank Dillane for his role in Harris Dickinson’s well-received debut, “Urchin,” a film about a homeless man. Cleo Diara also received recognition for her work in Portuguese director Pedro Pinho’s “I Only Rest in the Storm,” a film delving into neo-colonialism.
The screenplay award was presented to British director Harry Lighton for his kinky romance “Pillion,” starring Alexander Skarsgard. The film’s script was praised for its bold storytelling and character depth, rounding out a diverse and compelling selection of films in the Un Certain Regard section.
This year’s competition highlighted a range of voices and stories, showcasing emerging talents and unique perspectives from across the globe. The awards celebrate innovation in filmmaking and emphasize socially conscious narratives that push boundaries and challenge audiences.
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