The best moments from the 78th Locarno Film Festival Award Ceremony – applause, emotions, and winners celebrated!

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Sho Miyake – director of Tabi to Hibi (Two Seasons, Two Strangers), winner of the Pardo d'Oro – reflects on the power of cinema to make us feel alive and connected to the natural world.

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Meet Marya Imbro and Mikhail Senkov, winners of the Best Performance Award at Locarno78 for White Snail. Elsa Kremser and Levin Peter’s film also won the Festival’s Special Jury Award.

“A Belarusian model dreaming of a career in China finds herself drawn to a mysterious loner who works the night shift at a morgue. Their encounter unsettles her sense of body, beauty, and mortality. The fragile love story of two outsiders who turn each other's worlds upside down and discover that they are not alone”.

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‘What kind of planet are we going to leave to our children?”. That’s the question Pardo Verde winner Ben Rivers has been trying to answer with his film Mare's Nest, which premiered at Locarno78.

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Gioia mia – directed by Margherita Spampinato, and premiered at Locarno78 – is a film shaped by the passion and dedication of all involved. A heartfelt project in which cast and crew brought personal objects to the set, infusing each scene with spontaneity and genuine warmth.

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Director Sophy Romvari discusses Blue Heron, winner of the Swatch First Feature Award at Locarno78. A story seen rather than lived, from the vantage of the observer.

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Director Altay Ulan Yang presents HYENA, an autobiographical short film exploring isolation, tension, and memory, winner of the Pardino d’Oro Arts3 Foundation for Best International Short Film.

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Cecilia Kang, director of Hijo Mayor, is the winner of the Best Emerging Director Award at Locarno78. An intimate story about roots, migration, and identity through the eyes of a Korean-Argentinian family.

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Abbas Fahdel won the Pardo for Best Direction at Locarno78 for Tales of the Wounded Land, a documentary that explores the war in Lebanon with humanity and honesty.

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The winner of the Best Swiss Short Film award at Locarno78, Felipe Casanova, talks about O Rio de Janeiro Continua Lindo, a story retracing his homeland.

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Francesco Poloni won the Pardino d’Argento at Locarno78 for Tusen Toner, a project that took him to Sweden to uncover the story of a town that was forced to move.

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Ana Marija Veselčić won the Pardo for Best Performance at Locarno78 for God Will Not Help (by Hana Jušić), a story about women’s relationships.

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Directed by Elsa Kremser and Levin Peter – and premiered at Locarno78 –, White Snail emerges from the couple’s shared vision, portraying a deeply human story about the dangers of isolation.

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Gioia mia – directed by Margherita Spampinato and featuring Aurora Quattrocchi in a Best Performance Award-winning role – had its world premiere at Locarno78. The film evokes memories, childhood moments, and emotions we all carry, creating a sense of connection among audiences.

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Among the Best Performance winners at Locarno78, Levan Gelbakhiani reflects on Don’t Let the Sun (by Jacqueline Zünd) and what’s next in his career.

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Directors Trương Minh Quý and Nicolas Graux – winners of the Pardo d’Oro (Cineasti del Presente section) – discuss Hair, Paper, Water… (Tóc, giấy và nước...), a handcrafted film developed gradually, marked by their strong collaboration and a heartfelt connection with the audience.

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Golshifteh Farahani, recipient of the Excellence Award Davide Campari at Locarno78 recalls her journey in Locarno, talks about the start of her career as actress and the unity created by art and culture.

After her experience with “Sulla terra leggeri”, Sara Serraiocco returns to Locarno as a member of the Pardi di Domani Jury. We had the pleasure of interviewing her, and she shared her festival experience with us.

In this interview with actress Zar Amir Ebrahimi on “Le Pays d'Arto”, we explore the authentic soul of Armenia – a land shaped by history, and carried by a silent yet unwavering feminine strength. Women who find their voices through shared inspiration. And through them, we find ours.

In this interview, Miguel Ángel Jiménez explains how Corfu’s lush, almost jungle-like setting and elegant architecture reflect the arrogance of a powerful businessman and controlling father. Spanning just 24 hours, the film delves into unchecked wealth and family oppression, with a standout soundtrack that heightens its emotional impact.

Director Ben Rivers on his latest film “Mare’s Nest”, presented in the Concorso Internazionale at Locarno78. In this interview, the director recounts the origins of the story: a project born out of the sense of hardship accumulated during the pandemic, with children ‘trapped in their homes‘’, prisoners of the adult world.

Mohammad Rasoulof receives the the very first Locarno City of Peace Award at Locarno78. The Iranian director shares his vision of cinema as a form of resistance and freedom, his bond with his people, the pressures and censorship in Iran, and the universal significance of human dignity against all oppression.

Nadia Melliti tells how a chance encounter turned her from a student and ardent soccer fan into the star of “La petite dernière”, delivering a vibrant debut that weaves together family, faith, and self discovery.

Lamberto Bava reflects on his father Mario Bava’s legacy, the newly restored “Reazione a catena”, and the Pardo Speciale alla Carriera he received at the 78ᵗʰ Locarno Film Festival – blending memories, passion, and the art of auteur horror.

A journey through Kukla's perspective on her work “Fantasy”, part of the Concorso Cineasti del Presente at the 78th Locarno Film Festival. Discover how the film stems from creative freedom, the desire to show characters in their essence, and the power of portraying identities in transition with simplicity and truth.

Eduardo Casanova, director of “Silence” (presented in Fuori Concorso at Locarno78), intertwines the haunting worlds of vampires, the AIDS epidemic, and the suffocating silence that surrounds them.

Director and lead actor Éric K. Boulianne on “Folichonneries” (Cineasti del Presente competition, Locarno78). The film combines comedy, drama, and sexual freedom, telling a love story with irony and sincerity.

In this interview, director Marcel Barelli discusses receiving the Locarno Kids Award, the significance of cinema – especially during times of crisis –, and his experience creating “Mary Anning, chasseuse de fossiles”.

Tamara Stepanyan reveals the heart of “Le Pays d'Arto”: a film born from over ten years of love for her childhood Armenia, where the trauma of war lives on in the souls of those who are close to the pain.

In “With Hasan in Gaza”, Akmal Aljafari has captured moments suspended in time. This film is a tribute to people who may no longer exist, and to the power of cinema to bring to life what is no longer there.

A brief encounter with Levan Gelbakhiani, lead actor in “Don't Let the Sun”, provides insight into the challenges of physical scenes, his unique approach to casting, a sense of ‘dissociation’, and the playlist that helped him get into character.

Actor Denis Lavant recounts how cinema, through its characters, has transported him to real and inner places: from Armenia to the suffering of a people, thanks to “Le Pays D'Arto”, to the roots of mime, circus, and words. A confession of body, soul, and poetry, made possible by cinematic fiction.

Anna Eriksson introduces her film “E”, presented in the Fuori Concorso at Locarno78, in which she explores the spiritual loneliness of modern man and transforms the desert into a powerful allegory of the contemporary mind.

An interview with Margherita Spampinato, director of “Gioia mia”, in competition in the Cineasti del Presente section at the 78ᵗʰ Locarno Film Festival. The film examines the clash between technological modernity and deep human bonds through the eyes of a child and his aunt.

In this conversation, Marcel Barelli, winner of the Locarno Kids Award for his debut feature “Mary Anning, chasseuse de fossiles”, engages a young audience with direct questions, shares his personal passion for fossils and animals, and draws on his own life story.

Valentina and Nicole Bertani are the directors of “Le bambine”, part of the Concorso Internazionale section at Locarno78. A film that presents a visual, nostalgic, and intense portrait of a rebellious childhood, where memories and the saturated colors of the 1990s become the narrative voice.

In this interview, the co-producer of “Don’t Let the Sun” takes us on a journey through an unseen Milan, exploring unique architecture that unveils the city from new perspectives.

Ivana Mladenović unveils the journey of “Sorella di Clausura”, a film inspired by a manuscript from Anca Pop, an artist who died prematurely. This narrative intertwines memory, art, and friendship.

An interview in which the actresses explore their characters. Gladys, a symbol of freedom and adventure, and Eugénie, an emblem of rigor and restlessness. They recount how, together with the director, they brought to life a world suspended between fiction and reality.

In this interview, directors Alessio Rigo de Righi and Matteo Zoppis share their creative vision for “Testa o croce?”. A truly Italian western, filmed in Italy, and inspired by the legendary showdown between local butteri and American cowboys.

“Un balcon à Limoges” with Jérôme Reybaud from the Cineasti del Presente competition at Locarno78. At the center are two extreme and opposing women, symbols of conformity and rebellion in society. A poetic tale combining philosophy, cinema, and the desire for change.

Actress Aurora Quattrocchi talks about “Gioia Mia”, a film that explores innate freedom, unspoken trust, and the deep bond that forms across generations. From the gentle pace of time to the profound power of silence, this is a story that truly speaks to the heart.

Michele Dell’Ambrogio, director of the Bellinzona Film Club, discusses his career in cinema and the recognition he received with the Ticino Cinema Award at the Locarno Film Festival.

Director Giulio Base invites us into the heart of his film “Il Vangelo di Giuda”, a journey through Judas’s conscience, depicted as a stream of thoughts weaving guilt, destiny, and mercy, and challenging the notion of betrayal as an inevitable instrument of divine design.

In “The Deal”, director Jean-Stéphane Bron demonstrates that diplomacy is not merely about power; it's a human process rooted in listening, empathy, and compromise.

In this interview at Locarno78, Elsa Kremser and Levin Peter reveal the emotional and visceral process behind White Snail: a bold choice of the morgue as a symbolic setting. A sincere account of rediscovered vulnerability and the connection between bodies.

Jacqueline Zünd, director of “Don’t Let the Sun”, featured in the Cineasti del Presente competition at Locarno78, unpacks her vision of fragile relationships, brutalist architecture, and the yearning for transformation.

Ebs Burnough – director of “Kerouac’s Road: The Beat of a Nation” – reflects on travel, hope, and community. In a world saturated with algorithms, bright screens, and digital solitude, true hope is rediscovered in real-world connections, walking together, chatting with neighbors, and reclaiming our shared humanity.

A brief encounter with Levan Gelbakhiani, lead actor in Don't Let the Sun, provides insight into the challenges of physical scenes, his unique approach to casting, a sense of ‘dissociation’, and the playlist that helped him get into character.

Video © Shot and edited by CISA, presented by Swisscom

In this conversation at the 2025 Locarno Film Festival, actress Golshifteh Farahani, recipient of the Excellence Award Davide Campari, takes us on a journey through cinema, music, and identity. From not wanting to become an actress to discovering rhythm in cinema, Golshifteh reflects on her artistic journey, her deep connection to music, and the meaning of homeland and freedom.

A special moment from Locarno78: a conversation with Emma Thompson, who joined us to present her latest film The Dead of Winter (Brian Kirk, 2025) and to receive the Leopard Club Award.

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Jackie Chan takes the stage at Locarno78 – an unforgettable conversation with a living legend.

Straight from Locarno78: a conversation with Alexander Payne, who joined us to receive the Pardo d’Onore, presented by Manor – a celebration of his outstanding career in cinema.

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In this conversation, Marcel Barelli, winner of the Locarno Kids Award for his debut feature Mary Anning, chasseuse de fossiles, engages a young audience with direct questions, shares his personal passion for fossils and animals, and draws on his own life story.

Myriam Sassine and Georges Schoucair share intimate and professional stories behind Abbout Productions, recipient of the Raimondo Rezzonico Award at the 78ᵗʰ Locarno Film Festival. A journey through cinema, Lebanese identity, creative challenges, and censorship that drives innovation.

In this conversation, Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, recipient of the very first Locarno City of Peace Award, discusses how cinema can serve as a form of resistance and a beacon of hope. He shares his perspectives on freedom, culture, and the role of the artist in times of oppression.

Lamberto Bava reflects on his early days working with Mario Bava. He recalls the global success of “Demons” and the unexpected shift to fantasy with “Fantaghirò”. Plus, there are plenty of intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes, like the helicopter on set.

Industry professionals discuss: organizational issues at major festivals, differences between festivals in terms of dialogue with stars, and the impact of social media on film promotion.

A report of the first year of the new Investment obligation in Switzerland and the new regional funding landscape With Erdem Karademir (Federal Office of Culture), Tristan Albrecht (Switzerland Film Commission), Cléa Redalié (State of Geneva), Samuel Mellot (State of Geneva), Florence Adam (Neuchâtel Film Commission). Moderated by Laurent Steiert (Federal Office of Culture).

Join us for a live Q&A about “Yakushima's Illusion” by Naomi Kawase, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Tabi to Hibi” by Sho Miyake, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Tales of the Wounded Land” by Abbas Fahdel, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Le Lac” by Fabrice Aragno, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Dry Leaf” by Alexandre Koberidze, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Sorella di Clausura” by Ivana Mladenović, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Le bambine” by Valentina Bertani and Nicole Bertani, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Linije želje” by Dane Komljen, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “As Estações” by Maureen Fazendeiro, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Solomamma” by Janicke Askevold, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Dracula” by Radu Jude, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Donkey Days” by Rosanne Pel, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Mektoub, My Love: Canto Due” by Abdellatif Kechiche, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Mare's Nest” by Ben Rivers, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Bog neće pomoći” by Hana Jušić, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “White Snail” by Elsa Kremser and Levin Peter, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “Sehnsucht in Sangerhausen” by Julian Radlmaier, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

Join us for a live Q&A about “With Hasan in Gaza” by Kamal Aljafari, selected for the Concorso Internazionale section at the 78ᵗʰ edition of the Locarno Film Festival.

From unforgettable screenings to special moments on and off the red carpet, here’s a look back at the best of Locarno78.

Agnes Varda, Ermanno Olmi, Bernardo Bertolucci, Jane Campion… and Alexander Payne. Let’s take a moment to revisit the speech of the renowned American director on the Piazza Grande stage at Locarno78, where he received the Pardo d’Onore (presented by Manor).

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What an honor it was for Locarno78 to welcome two of the most significant artists of our time – Iranian filmmakers Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof – on the Piazza Grande stage.

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Willem Dafoe and Emma Suárez share a laugh as they reflect on their on-set chemistry during the making of “The Birthday Party”, directed by Miguel Ángel Jiménez. A glimpse behind the scenes of the film’s world premiere in Piazza Grande at Locarno78.

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After a spectacular night at Locarno78, we pause to reflect on the inspiring and heartfelt words shared by Emma Thompson as she received our Leopard Club Award on stage of Piazza Grande. Thank you for being with us, Emma.

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An unforgettable day in Piazza Grande with #JackieChan, who received our prestigious Pardo alla Carriera at #Locarno78, presented by Ascona-Locarno Tourism.

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“Let’s take refuge in cinema. Together, through culture and art, we can make this world a better place” After a successful first night at Locarno78, we want to pause for a moment and return to the powerful and deeply moving words shared by Golshifteh Farahani, as she received the Excellence Award Davide Campari – presented to her on stage by her friend and fellow actress Zar Amir Ebrahimi.

Thank you for being with us, Golshifteh.

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After World War II, Britain had to embark on the rocky road to national reconstruction and revival. Showing the cultural response by the nation's filmmakers, writers, producers, performers and studios, our wide-ranging Retrospective of British cinema of that period will be a key part of the 78ᵗʰ Locarno Film Festival. Curated by Ehsan Khoshbakht, ‘Great Expectations: British Postwar Cinema (1945-1960)’ is a Locarno Film Festival project presented with the British Film Institute and the Cinémathèque suisse, and with the support of StudioCanal.

Over 200 films. One world in all its contradictions. The #Locarno78 trailer is not just a preview – it’s a glimpse into the stories, conflicts, dreams, and fractures that shape our time. Cinema doesn’t explain the world. But it dares to look at it.

“Territory” (The Blaze, 2025) has been licensed through SUISA and all rights have been paid for.