THE LIST GOES DOWN FROM 85 TO THE TOP 15 FILMS
DECEMBER 18, 2024
DECEMBER 18, 2024
(United Kingdom - Santosh; Canada - Universal Language; Czechia - Waves)
On December 17th, the list of 85 contenders was narrowed down to just 15—a challenging and nearly impossible task, but one that happens every year. This year, the following films have advanced to the next round:
BRAZIL - I'M STILL HERE
CANADA - UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
CZECHIA - WAVES
DENMARK - THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE
FRANCE - EMILIA PEREZ
GERMANY - THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG
ICELAND - TOUCH
IRELAND - KNEECAP
ITALY - VERMIGLIO
LATVIA - FLOW
NORWAY - ARMAND
PALESTINE - FROM GROUND ZERO
SENEGAL - DAHOMEY
THAILAND - HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES
UNITED KINGDOM - SANTOSH
CANADA - UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
CZECHIA - WAVES
DENMARK - THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE
FRANCE - EMILIA PEREZ
GERMANY - THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG
ICELAND - TOUCH
IRELAND - KNEECAP
ITALY - VERMIGLIO
LATVIA - FLOW
NORWAY - ARMAND
PALESTINE - FROM GROUND ZERO
SENEGAL - DAHOMEY
THAILAND - HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES
UNITED KINGDOM - SANTOSH
Before we begin with our analysis we want to congratulate these films that were shortlisted in other categories:
This year, we successfully predicted 12 out of the 15 shortlisted films, slightly down from 13 correct predictions last year.
The three films we missed were Touch (Iceland), Armand (Norway), and From Ground Zero (Palestine). In their place, we had anticipated The Last Journey (Sweden), Julie Keeps Quiet (Belgium), and Sujo (Mexico) to make the cut.
European films dominate the list with ten slots, an increase from nine last year. Asian films hold two spots, while Africa, North America, and South America each claim one.
The Palm Springs Film Festival continues to solidify its reputation as the strongest predictor for the 15 shortlisted films. This year, all 15 shortlisted films are featured at the festival, bringing its impressive total to 58 out of 60 over the past four years. On Letterboxd, 13 of the 15 films have a rating of 3.5 or higher. The exceptions are Armand (3.3) and Emilia Pérez (3.1). Notably, 57 of the last 60 shortlisted films have surpassed the 3.5 threshold on Letterboxd. Similarly, on Metacritic, 14 of the 15 films boast a score above 70, with Armand narrowly missing the mark at 69. This consistency underscores the reliability of these platforms and the festival in forecasting the shortlist. All films nominated at NBR, Golden Globes, Critics Choice and the European Film Awards were shortlisted as well.
High profile films continue to dominate the shortlisted list as well. As members of The Academy only need to meet a minimum viewing requirement to vote in the first round, debuting at Cannes Film Festival or Venice Film Festival, playing at the North American film festival circuit, having Amazon and Netflix backing the film, having the money to spend on a campaign, has proven to be essential.
It's very interesting to note that 12 of the 15 films debuted at one of the top festivals around the world:
The great part of advancing to the final 15 is that all members of The Academy who want to vote for the next round need to watch all 15 films. This levels the playing field now.
Ok, so let's take a look now at these incredible 15 films:
- Documentary Feature: Dahomey (Senegal)
- Original Score: Emilia Pérez (France)
- Original Song: Emilia Pérez (France), Kneecap (Ireland)
- Make Up and Hairstyling: Emilia Pérez (France)
- Sound: Emilia Pérez (France)
This year, we successfully predicted 12 out of the 15 shortlisted films, slightly down from 13 correct predictions last year.
The three films we missed were Touch (Iceland), Armand (Norway), and From Ground Zero (Palestine). In their place, we had anticipated The Last Journey (Sweden), Julie Keeps Quiet (Belgium), and Sujo (Mexico) to make the cut.
European films dominate the list with ten slots, an increase from nine last year. Asian films hold two spots, while Africa, North America, and South America each claim one.
The Palm Springs Film Festival continues to solidify its reputation as the strongest predictor for the 15 shortlisted films. This year, all 15 shortlisted films are featured at the festival, bringing its impressive total to 58 out of 60 over the past four years. On Letterboxd, 13 of the 15 films have a rating of 3.5 or higher. The exceptions are Armand (3.3) and Emilia Pérez (3.1). Notably, 57 of the last 60 shortlisted films have surpassed the 3.5 threshold on Letterboxd. Similarly, on Metacritic, 14 of the 15 films boast a score above 70, with Armand narrowly missing the mark at 69. This consistency underscores the reliability of these platforms and the festival in forecasting the shortlist. All films nominated at NBR, Golden Globes, Critics Choice and the European Film Awards were shortlisted as well.
High profile films continue to dominate the shortlisted list as well. As members of The Academy only need to meet a minimum viewing requirement to vote in the first round, debuting at Cannes Film Festival or Venice Film Festival, playing at the North American film festival circuit, having Amazon and Netflix backing the film, having the money to spend on a campaign, has proven to be essential.
It's very interesting to note that 12 of the 15 films debuted at one of the top festivals around the world:
- Venice (2): I'm Still Here, Vermiglio
- Cannes (7): Universal Language, The Girl with the Needle, Emilia Pérez, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, Flow, Armand, Santosh
- Telluride (0)
- Berlin (1): Dahomey
- Sundance (1): Kneecap
- Toronto (1): From Ground Zero
The great part of advancing to the final 15 is that all members of The Academy who want to vote for the next round need to watch all 15 films. This levels the playing field now.
Ok, so let's take a look now at these incredible 15 films:
I'M STILL HERE (BRAZIL)
I'm Still Here is a poignant and masterfully crafted film directed by Walter Salles, written by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega. It is based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva's autobiographical book, which recounts the moving and turbulent life of his mother, Eunice Paiva. Set against the backdrop of Brazil's military dictatorship in the 1970s, the film tells the story of Rubens Paiva, a former deputy who is taken from his home by soldiers for interrogation and never seen again. As Eunice struggles to uncover the truth about her husband’s disappearance, the narrative spans three decades, capturing the relentless pursuit of justice and the emotional toll it takes on her and her family. Eunice Paiva’s personal struggle becomes even more profound when she begins to experience the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s just as long-sought answers about her husband’s fate begin to emerge.
The film had its world premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it received widespread critical acclaim. Fernanda Torres’ performance as Eunice Paiva was unanimously praised, with critics lauding her portrayal of strength, resilience, and vulnerability. The screenplay, which won the Best Screenplay award at Venice, has been celebrated for its delicate handling of deeply emotional material while maintaining its focus on historical and political context.
Sony Pictures Classics has acquired the North American distribution rights, ensuring that this important story will reach a wide audience. With its stunning performances, nuanced storytelling, and historical significance, I'm Still Here is a testament to the enduring impact of love, truth, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The film had its world premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it received widespread critical acclaim. Fernanda Torres’ performance as Eunice Paiva was unanimously praised, with critics lauding her portrayal of strength, resilience, and vulnerability. The screenplay, which won the Best Screenplay award at Venice, has been celebrated for its delicate handling of deeply emotional material while maintaining its focus on historical and political context.
Sony Pictures Classics has acquired the North American distribution rights, ensuring that this important story will reach a wide audience. With its stunning performances, nuanced storytelling, and historical significance, I'm Still Here is a testament to the enduring impact of love, truth, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE (CANADA)
Universal Language, directed by Matthew Rankin, is a bold and imaginative film that explores the intersections of culture, identity, and connection in a world where borders blur. Set in an alternate reality where Winnipeg, Quebec, and Tehran coexist as one unified space, the film weaves together personal and collective narratives through a multilingual ensemble cast speaking Farsi and French.
Rankin himself plays a fictionalized version of his own character, grounding the surreal premise in a deeply human story. The film delves into themes of nostalgia, cultural displacement, and the search for meaning in an interconnected world, presenting Winnipeg as a melting pot of contrasting yet harmonious cultural identities.
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, Universal Language captivated audiences with its inventive storytelling, striking visuals, and heartfelt performances, earning it the Directors' Fortnight Audience Award. The film is a celebration of linguistic diversity and the power of communication, showing how language can bridge divides and create shared understanding even in the most unexpected circumstances. With its unique setting and thought-provoking narrative, Universal Language is a testament to Rankin's distinct cinematic voice, offering a compelling vision of a world united through shared humanity.
Rankin himself plays a fictionalized version of his own character, grounding the surreal premise in a deeply human story. The film delves into themes of nostalgia, cultural displacement, and the search for meaning in an interconnected world, presenting Winnipeg as a melting pot of contrasting yet harmonious cultural identities.
Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, Universal Language captivated audiences with its inventive storytelling, striking visuals, and heartfelt performances, earning it the Directors' Fortnight Audience Award. The film is a celebration of linguistic diversity and the power of communication, showing how language can bridge divides and create shared understanding even in the most unexpected circumstances. With its unique setting and thought-provoking narrative, Universal Language is a testament to Rankin's distinct cinematic voice, offering a compelling vision of a world united through shared humanity.
WAVES (CZECHIA)
Waves, directed by Jiří Mádl, is a gripping historical thriller set during the Prague Spring of 1968. The film tells the story of two brothers whose cinematic journey intertwines with real events surrounding a group of correspondents at Czechoslovak Radio during this pivotal period. The characters are based on real members of the International Life Editorial Board, led by Milan Weiner, who fought to maintain independent journalism amidst the Soviet invasion.
This is Mádl's third feature film, following his previous works To See the Sea and On the Roof, both of which earned Czech Lion nominations. As an actor, Mádl won the Czech Lion Award for his role in Droneman in 2020. Waves showcases his talent both in front of and behind the camera, bringing to life the bravery and resilience of journalists determined to keep independent news running during the invasion.
The film features an ensemble cast led by Vojtěch Vodochodský, alongside Táňa Pauhofová, Stanislav Majer, Ondřej Stupka, and Martin Hofmann, among others. Waves had its world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award, cementing its status as a compelling and well-received historical drama. With its powerful performances, evocative direction, and poignant portrayal of a critical moment in history, Waves stands as a significant contribution to Czech cinema.
This is Mádl's third feature film, following his previous works To See the Sea and On the Roof, both of which earned Czech Lion nominations. As an actor, Mádl won the Czech Lion Award for his role in Droneman in 2020. Waves showcases his talent both in front of and behind the camera, bringing to life the bravery and resilience of journalists determined to keep independent news running during the invasion.
The film features an ensemble cast led by Vojtěch Vodochodský, alongside Táňa Pauhofová, Stanislav Majer, Ondřej Stupka, and Martin Hofmann, among others. Waves had its world premiere at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award, cementing its status as a compelling and well-received historical drama. With its powerful performances, evocative direction, and poignant portrayal of a critical moment in history, Waves stands as a significant contribution to Czech cinema.
THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE (DENMARK)
The Girl with the Needle, directed by Magnus von Horn, tells the poignant story of Karoline, a young factory worker in post-World War I Copenhagen, who faces abandonment and pregnancy while striving to escape poverty. As she navigates the hardships of her situation, she encounters Dagmar, a charismatic woman running a hidden adoption agency within a candy store, offering help to struggling mothers by finding foster homes for their unwanted children.
This marks von Horn’s first Danish-language feature, following his acclaimed Swedish debut The Here After (2015), which premiered in Directors’ Fortnight at Cannes. His second feature, Sweat, a Polish production, was selected for the official Cannes program in 2020, though the festival was canceled due to the pandemic. The Girl with the Needle debuted in competition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, further solidifying von Horn’s reputation for creating emotionally resonant, character-driven narratives.
The film had its theatrical premiere in New York and Los Angeles on December 6 via Mubi, with The Match Factory handling world sales rights. With its powerful storytelling, The Girl with the Needle continues von Horn’s exploration of human resilience and the complexities of societal pressures, making it a must-see for fans of evocative, thought-provoking cinema.
This marks von Horn’s first Danish-language feature, following his acclaimed Swedish debut The Here After (2015), which premiered in Directors’ Fortnight at Cannes. His second feature, Sweat, a Polish production, was selected for the official Cannes program in 2020, though the festival was canceled due to the pandemic. The Girl with the Needle debuted in competition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, further solidifying von Horn’s reputation for creating emotionally resonant, character-driven narratives.
The film had its theatrical premiere in New York and Los Angeles on December 6 via Mubi, with The Match Factory handling world sales rights. With its powerful storytelling, The Girl with the Needle continues von Horn’s exploration of human resilience and the complexities of societal pressures, making it a must-see for fans of evocative, thought-provoking cinema.
EMILIA PEREZ (FRANCE)
Emilia Pérez, directed by the acclaimed Jacques Audiard, tells the gripping story of Rita, an underappreciated lawyer working for a large law firm more focused on getting criminals out of jail than seeking justice. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is hired by the leader of a criminal organization.
Audiard, known for his Palme d'Or-winning film Dheepan and his earlier Oscar nomination for A Prophet (2009), returns with this intense thriller that blends moral complexity with sharp character dynamics. Emilia Pérez premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where its four lead actresses—Gascón, Saldaña, Gomez, and Paz—earned the prestigious collective Best Actress award, and the film went on to win the Jury Prize.
Released theatrically by Pathé in France on August 21, the film has attracted a strong audience, with approximately 735,000 spectators and a gross of $5.9 million. Emilia Pérez had a limited theatrical release in the U.S. before debuting on Netflix on November 13. With its compelling performances and Audiard’s deft direction, the film is poised to make a strong impact internationally.
Audiard, known for his Palme d'Or-winning film Dheepan and his earlier Oscar nomination for A Prophet (2009), returns with this intense thriller that blends moral complexity with sharp character dynamics. Emilia Pérez premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where its four lead actresses—Gascón, Saldaña, Gomez, and Paz—earned the prestigious collective Best Actress award, and the film went on to win the Jury Prize.
Released theatrically by Pathé in France on August 21, the film has attracted a strong audience, with approximately 735,000 spectators and a gross of $5.9 million. Emilia Pérez had a limited theatrical release in the U.S. before debuting on Netflix on November 13. With its compelling performances and Audiard’s deft direction, the film is poised to make a strong impact internationally.
THE SEED OF THE SACRED FIG (GERMANY)
The Seed of the Sacred Fig is the latest film from renowned Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, whose previous works include Goodbye (2011), which won Best Director at Cannes, and There Is No Evil (2020), which won the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival.
In this tense political drama, Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, finds himself unraveling as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting his wife, Najmeh, and daughters, Rezvan and Sana, of being involved, he imposes harsh measures at home, causing familial tensions to escalate. As the situation deteriorates, social norms and family rules begin to break down.
Starring Misagh Zare, Soheila Golestani, Mahsa Rostami, and Setareh Maleki, The Seed of the Sacred Fig premiered in competition at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it won the Special Jury Prize and the FIPRESCI Award. The film later triumphed with the Audience Award at the Sydney Film Festival in June 2024. Released in North American theatres in November 2024, The Seed of the Sacred Fig has solidified Rasoulof’s place as a master of political cinema, with its sharp commentary on power, trust, and the erosion of personal boundaries.
In this tense political drama, Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, finds himself unraveling as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting his wife, Najmeh, and daughters, Rezvan and Sana, of being involved, he imposes harsh measures at home, causing familial tensions to escalate. As the situation deteriorates, social norms and family rules begin to break down.
Starring Misagh Zare, Soheila Golestani, Mahsa Rostami, and Setareh Maleki, The Seed of the Sacred Fig premiered in competition at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it won the Special Jury Prize and the FIPRESCI Award. The film later triumphed with the Audience Award at the Sydney Film Festival in June 2024. Released in North American theatres in November 2024, The Seed of the Sacred Fig has solidified Rasoulof’s place as a master of political cinema, with its sharp commentary on power, trust, and the erosion of personal boundaries.
TOUCH (ICELAND)
Touch is the latest film from acclaimed Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur, known for his previous works such as The Sea (2002), Jar City (2007), White Night Wedding (2008), and The Deep (2012), which was shortlisted for the Oscars.
In Touch, Kristofer, a man who realizes that time is running out in the wake of the pandemic, embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of his Japanese girlfriend, who vanished without a trace in London fifty years earlier.
The film has been hailed for its intricate narrative, blending elements of mystery and introspective drama. It also marks Kormákur's fifth submission from Iceland to the Academy Awards, following his previous notable entries. Touch had its worldwide debut in Iceland in May 2024, generating significant buzz before being released across North America in July. With Kormákur’s deft direction and the film’s compelling emotional undercurrent, Touch stands out as a gripping exploration of memory, loss, and the fragile nature of time. Its exploration of personal grief and the impact of past relationships offers a deep, resonant experience for viewers, reaffirming Kormákur's reputation as a master of emotionally rich storytelling.
In Touch, Kristofer, a man who realizes that time is running out in the wake of the pandemic, embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of his Japanese girlfriend, who vanished without a trace in London fifty years earlier.
The film has been hailed for its intricate narrative, blending elements of mystery and introspective drama. It also marks Kormákur's fifth submission from Iceland to the Academy Awards, following his previous notable entries. Touch had its worldwide debut in Iceland in May 2024, generating significant buzz before being released across North America in July. With Kormákur’s deft direction and the film’s compelling emotional undercurrent, Touch stands out as a gripping exploration of memory, loss, and the fragile nature of time. Its exploration of personal grief and the impact of past relationships offers a deep, resonant experience for viewers, reaffirming Kormákur's reputation as a master of emotionally rich storytelling.
KNEECAP (IRELAND)
Kneecap is a dynamic and innovative film that blends the worlds of hip hop and cultural revival. Set in Belfast, it follows JJ, a teacher who finds himself unexpectedly drawn into the orbit of Naoise and Liam, self-confessed "low life scum" who form the West Belfast rap trio Kneecap. Their unique act, rapping in their native Irish, sparks a movement aimed at preserving the Irish language and reviving its place in modern culture. As the trio’s raw and powerful music gains traction, they challenge societal norms and fight for the survival of their heritage.
Written and directed by Rich Peppiatt, Kneecap features the members of the actual Kneecap trio—Móglai Bap, Mo Chara, and DJ Provaí—alongside an impressive ensemble cast, including Oscar nominee Michael Fassbender, Simone Kirby, Josie Walker, Fionnuala Flaherty, Jessica Reynolds, and Adam Best.
The film made history earlier this year by becoming the first Irish-language film to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, garnering widespread praise for its bold exploration of language, identity, and rebellion through the lens of music and youthful defiance.
Written and directed by Rich Peppiatt, Kneecap features the members of the actual Kneecap trio—Móglai Bap, Mo Chara, and DJ Provaí—alongside an impressive ensemble cast, including Oscar nominee Michael Fassbender, Simone Kirby, Josie Walker, Fionnuala Flaherty, Jessica Reynolds, and Adam Best.
The film made history earlier this year by becoming the first Irish-language film to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, garnering widespread praise for its bold exploration of language, identity, and rebellion through the lens of music and youthful defiance.
VERMIGLIO (ITALY)
Vermiglio is a deeply evocative and atmospheric film set against the backdrop of World War II, in the remote mountain village of Vermiglio, Italy. In 1944, Pietro, a deserter fleeing the war, seeks refuge in the home of the village’s teacher. His presence disrupts the quiet life of the teacher's family, and a forbidden romance soon ignites between him and the teacher’s eldest daughter. As their love affair unfolds, it sets in motion a series of events that will alter the course of their lives, testing their moral boundaries and the strength of their relationships with the community. This intimate and tense drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and survival in the shadow of a world at war.
Directed by Maura Delpero, Vermiglio marks her second feature following the success of her debut film Maternal, which won critical acclaim, including the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. With Vermiglio, Delpero demonstrates her ability to create powerful, character-driven stories that delve into personal and emotional struggles.
The film had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it captivated audiences and critics alike. It continued its successful festival run, screening at prestigious events such as the Toronto International Film Festival, São Paulo, London, Chicago, and the Hamptons International Film Festival. The film's success led to the acquisition of North American distribution rights by Sideshow and Janus Films, ensuring that it will reach a wider audience eager to experience this gripping and heartfelt narrative.
Directed by Maura Delpero, Vermiglio marks her second feature following the success of her debut film Maternal, which won critical acclaim, including the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. With Vermiglio, Delpero demonstrates her ability to create powerful, character-driven stories that delve into personal and emotional struggles.
The film had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it captivated audiences and critics alike. It continued its successful festival run, screening at prestigious events such as the Toronto International Film Festival, São Paulo, London, Chicago, and the Hamptons International Film Festival. The film's success led to the acquisition of North American distribution rights by Sideshow and Janus Films, ensuring that it will reach a wider audience eager to experience this gripping and heartfelt narrative.
FLOW (LATVIA)
Flow is an imaginative and visually stunning animated feature by Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis. The film tells the story of Cat, a solitary creature whose home is destroyed by a massive flood. Seeking refuge, Cat embarks on a journey aboard a boat filled with a variety of species. As they sail through mystical and flooded landscapes, Cat must learn to collaborate with the other passengers despite their differences. The film explores themes of adaptation, survival, and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.
Flow is Zilbalodis' second animated feature, following the success of his debut, Away. It had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, where it garnered significant attention for its innovative animation style and emotional depth. The film later went on to win four prestigious awards at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, including the Audience Award, solidifying its critical acclaim.
With its captivating visuals and heartfelt narrative, Flow invites audiences into a world that blends surrealism with a poignant exploration of collaboration and perseverance.
Flow is Zilbalodis' second animated feature, following the success of his debut, Away. It had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, where it garnered significant attention for its innovative animation style and emotional depth. The film later went on to win four prestigious awards at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, including the Audience Award, solidifying its critical acclaim.
With its captivating visuals and heartfelt narrative, Flow invites audiences into a world that blends surrealism with a poignant exploration of collaboration and perseverance.
ARMAND (NORWAY)
Armand is a provocative and unsettling psychological drama that delves into the complexities of childhood innocence, guilt, and the intense emotions that surface when boundaries are tested. The story revolves around Armand, a 6-year-old boy who is accused of crossing boundaries with his best friend at school. The incident, shrouded in mystery, sparks a tense and increasingly volatile situation involving the parents, school staff, and the community. As accusations and suspicions mount, the narrative explores the darker sides of human nature, exposing how obsession, desire, and the search for redemption can unravel lives.
The film is the directorial debut of Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, the grandson of celebrated Norwegian actress Liv Ullmann and legendary Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. Tøndel's debut is a tense exploration of complex moral questions, presented through an atmosphere of psychological tension and emotional intensity. His approach to storytelling brings an eerie sense of dread while also examining the dynamics of power, influence, and human vulnerability.
Armand premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2024, in the Un Certain Regard section. It was met with critical acclaim, and Tøndel's directorial vision earned him the coveted Camera d'Or for best first feature film. This prestigious award is a testament to the film's powerful impact, showcasing Tøndel's ability to handle complex themes with both sensitivity and boldness.
The film is the directorial debut of Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, the grandson of celebrated Norwegian actress Liv Ullmann and legendary Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. Tøndel's debut is a tense exploration of complex moral questions, presented through an atmosphere of psychological tension and emotional intensity. His approach to storytelling brings an eerie sense of dread while also examining the dynamics of power, influence, and human vulnerability.
Armand premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2024, in the Un Certain Regard section. It was met with critical acclaim, and Tøndel's directorial vision earned him the coveted Camera d'Or for best first feature film. This prestigious award is a testament to the film's powerful impact, showcasing Tøndel's ability to handle complex themes with both sensitivity and boldness.
FROM GROUND ZERO (PALESTINE)
From Ground Zero is a poignant and powerful documentary project that brings together 22 short films created by young filmmakers from Gaza. The initiative, spearheaded by Rashid Masharawi, emerged as a response to the ongoing conflict, offering a vital platform for young artists to share their voices and experiences. The films, each lasting between 3 to 7 minutes, provide a raw and deeply personal exploration of life in Gaza, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the daily realities of those living in the besieged strip.
The filmmakers, including talented voices such as Nada'A Abu Hasna, Bashar Al-Belbessy, Mahdi Karira, and Aws Al-Banna, have used cinema as a tool to denounce the systematic extermination of Palestinians in Gaza. Through their vivid and often harrowing narratives, they shed light on the struggles, resilience, and the harshness of life under occupation. The documentary is not just a collection of short films, but a collective cry for justice and a means to express the unfiltered emotions and lived experiences of those affected by the ongoing violence.
From Ground Zero made its worldwide premiere at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival on September 9th. This powerful compilation is not only a testament to the resilience of Gaza’s young filmmakers but also a crucial documentary that calls for international attention to the ongoing crisis in the region. Through their lens, these filmmakers give voice to those often unheard, telling their stories with courage and urgency.
The filmmakers, including talented voices such as Nada'A Abu Hasna, Bashar Al-Belbessy, Mahdi Karira, and Aws Al-Banna, have used cinema as a tool to denounce the systematic extermination of Palestinians in Gaza. Through their vivid and often harrowing narratives, they shed light on the struggles, resilience, and the harshness of life under occupation. The documentary is not just a collection of short films, but a collective cry for justice and a means to express the unfiltered emotions and lived experiences of those affected by the ongoing violence.
From Ground Zero made its worldwide premiere at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival on September 9th. This powerful compilation is not only a testament to the resilience of Gaza’s young filmmakers but also a crucial documentary that calls for international attention to the ongoing crisis in the region. Through their lens, these filmmakers give voice to those often unheard, telling their stories with courage and urgency.
DAHOMEY (SENEGAL)
Mati Diop's documentary explores the complex and poignant journey of 26 royal treasures from the Kingdom of Dahomey, soon to be returned to their country of origin, the Republic of Benin, after being plundered by French colonial troops in 1892. These artifacts, which had remained in Paris for over a century, are now poised to return to Benin in a historic homecoming.
The documentary delves into the challenges and emotions surrounding this repatriation, as it examines how a nation that had to rebuild and redefine itself in the absence of these cultural treasures reconciles with their return. The film raises critical questions about history, identity, and the lasting legacies of colonialism.
Directed by the acclaimed French-Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop, the documentary earned the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival, cementing its place as a landmark film. This is the second time Senegal has submitted a film by Diop to the Academy, following the success of her 2019 film Atlantics, which was shortlisted for an Academy Award. The documentary had its world premiere at Berlin and it has been acquired by Mubi for global distribution.
The documentary delves into the challenges and emotions surrounding this repatriation, as it examines how a nation that had to rebuild and redefine itself in the absence of these cultural treasures reconciles with their return. The film raises critical questions about history, identity, and the lasting legacies of colonialism.
Directed by the acclaimed French-Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop, the documentary earned the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival, cementing its place as a landmark film. This is the second time Senegal has submitted a film by Diop to the Academy, following the success of her 2019 film Atlantics, which was shortlisted for an Academy Award. The documentary had its world premiere at Berlin and it has been acquired by Mubi for global distribution.
HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES (THAILAND)
The film tells the story of M, a university dropout struggling to make ends meet. With few options left, he decides to volunteer to care for his terminally ill grandmother, hoping to secure the inheritance that will help him escape his financial troubles. However, as M spends more time with his grandmother, he becomes increasingly entangled in the complexities of his emotions, guilt, and the moral dilemmas surrounding his motivations. What begins as a self-serving act slowly transforms into something more complicated as M faces his own conscience and the consequences of his actions.
Directed by Pat Boonnitipat, the film debuted directly in theatres across Thailand in April 2024, skipping the typical festival route. The film quickly became a box office hit, resonating with audiences across Asia. Its global box office earnings have already surpassed $50 million, and it has become one of the most talked-about films of the year. The film was released in North America on September 13th, 2024.
With its mix of dark humor, moral conflict, and an exploration of family dynamics, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies has garnered praise for its engaging storyline and nuanced performances. The film has also sparked discussions around themes of greed, family loyalty, and the lengths people are willing to go to secure their future.
Directed by Pat Boonnitipat, the film debuted directly in theatres across Thailand in April 2024, skipping the typical festival route. The film quickly became a box office hit, resonating with audiences across Asia. Its global box office earnings have already surpassed $50 million, and it has become one of the most talked-about films of the year. The film was released in North America on September 13th, 2024.
With its mix of dark humor, moral conflict, and an exploration of family dynamics, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies has garnered praise for its engaging storyline and nuanced performances. The film has also sparked discussions around themes of greed, family loyalty, and the lengths people are willing to go to secure their future.
SANTOSH (UNITED KINGDOM)
Santosh follows the story of a newly widowed woman who unexpectedly inherits her late husband's job as a police constable in the rural badlands of Northern India. As Santosh begins her new life, she is thrust into an investigation when a low-caste girl is found raped and murdered. Under the guidance of charismatic feminist inspector Sharma, Santosh finds herself navigating a complex web of societal pressures, gender dynamics, and corruption in a deeply patriarchal society.
This marks the narrative feature debut of Sandhya Suri, who previously made her mark with the acclaimed documentary I For India in 2005. Suri's short drama The Field, which won Best International Short at the Toronto Film Festival in 2018, was also nominated for a BAFTA in 2019. Santosh had its worldwide debut at the Cannes Film Festival in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section in 2024, where it quickly garnered attention and was snapped up for release in North America by Metrograph Pictures.
The film has been praised for its powerful performances, especially by its lead, and its exploration of themes related to gender, power, and the complexities of life in rural India. The intersection of personal tragedy with larger social issues offers a unique perspective on modern-day India, while also providing a gripping mystery that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
This marks the narrative feature debut of Sandhya Suri, who previously made her mark with the acclaimed documentary I For India in 2005. Suri's short drama The Field, which won Best International Short at the Toronto Film Festival in 2018, was also nominated for a BAFTA in 2019. Santosh had its worldwide debut at the Cannes Film Festival in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section in 2024, where it quickly garnered attention and was snapped up for release in North America by Metrograph Pictures.
The film has been praised for its powerful performances, especially by its lead, and its exploration of themes related to gender, power, and the complexities of life in rural India. The intersection of personal tragedy with larger social issues offers a unique perspective on modern-day India, while also providing a gripping mystery that keeps the audience engaged throughout.