Winning Films

Jurytext: For the main prize, the jury of the European Competition chose a film that presents a subtle yet sharp observation of an idiosyncratic subculture. From the very beginning, it involves the audience and puts our empathy to the test in a smart, elegant and genuine way thanks to an exceptionally precise leading actress. The director allows the questions that are so expressively written on the protagonist's face to resonate in the spectator's mind for a long time. With a detailed realisation, the film succeeds in holding up a satirical mirror to our society and providing us with a fascinating film experience.

Jurytext: This beautiful animated work introduced us with a captivating and strong female portrayal, who, through her strength, introduces profound questions often overlooked in contemporary society. A distinctive animation style magnificently enhances the narrative, drawing us deeply into the protagonist's world and fostering a complete immersion in her unique story.

Jurytext: A film about the contemporary relationship between humans and nature. It engages us in a scientific exploration through its unique storytelling and original complexity. Reflecting on the parallels between life and death, as observed through the eye of seagulls.

Jurytext: Wouter Bongaerts JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition SHORT FICTION FILM This original and emotionally charged narrative invites us into a well-rendered intimate family environment. The director's remarkable sensibility for capturing unfolding unique moments held our attention with exceptional storytelling, cinematography, and outstanding performances. The jury award for best Flemish Fiction award goes to: Friday, 1st of July directed by Sarah Lederman JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY In this short the camera takes us very gently by the hand. It reveals a place where outsiders never come, not even the neighbours. We are visitors, peering through the lens, sharing an intimacy only few experience. The delicate game of light and dark. The stunning portraits. The two visual worlds touching each other briefly. For all these reasons the jury decides to give the award for best cinematography to: Michel Rosendaal for Friday, 1st of July

Jurytext: Jennifer Heylen JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition BEST ACTING In the delicate art of emotion, our character wears a joyful facade concealing a turbulent reality. This performance is a profound exploration, leaving us emotionally moved and empathetic. The character, a puzzle to herself, battles inner turmoil, attempting to spare her partner while causing harm to herself. This unfolding narrative reveals a complex, tormented soul, a precious gift masterfully portrayed by an actor who not only played the role but also wrote and directed—a true pinnacle of artistic expression.=== Cato Catteeuw in Burn

Jurytext: Wouter Bongaerts JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition SHORT FICTION FILM This original and emotionally charged narrative invites us into a well-rendered intimate family environment. The director's remarkable sensibility for capturing unfolding unique moments held our attention with exceptional storytelling, cinematography, and outstanding performances. The jury award for best Flemish Fiction award goes to: Friday, 1st of July directed by Sarah Lederman JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY In this short the camera takes us very gently by the hand. It reveals a place where outsiders never come, not even the neighbours. We are visitors, peering through the lens, sharing an intimacy only few experience. The delicate game of light and dark. The stunning portraits. The two visual worlds touching each other briefly. For all these reasons the jury decides to give the award for best cinematography to: Michel Rosendaal for Friday, 1st of July

Jurytext: This debut demanded our attention from the first second with its colourful imagery, amazingly well-written script and hilariously quick witted humor. A stellar acting by the main character that leaves you uneasy yet wanting to see more of his crazy antics. With more than one plot twist, the unexpected turn the charters make, keeps you glued to the screen. These strong choices of the director left us no other choice, than to conclude this is without a doubt the BEST DEBUT. Rocky meets Lucy, by Georges Rottier

Jurytext: The film had unanimously impressed us for its nuanced, black-comedy tone, with a wholly original backdrop for a character study about our human desire for self-worth. We admired the consistent levels of craftsmanship across all areas of production, appreciating the specificity and care that went into capturing this unique setting and its inhabitants. The writer/director has written a wonderful script, full of pathos and humour, as well as directing an excellent ensemble of performances from the cast. It was a joy to watch, and a film we as peers found both laugh-out-loud funny, and poignantly true-to-life.

Jurytext: First of all, the jury would like to praise a film from the European competition that takes us on a nostalgia-filled visual journey with countless references to the history of cinema. With close-ups and furtive glances, the film truly draws us into the world of its young protagonists; and with the skilful use of light and sound, the team behind the film creates an extremely cinematic and stylish atmosphere.

Jurytext: The film that deserves a special mention for its exceptional acting and directing vision, as well as film's photographic sensitivity is Sibling directed by Laura Van Passel.

Jurytext: Jennifer Heylen JURY STATEMENT Flemish Competition BEST ACTING In the delicate art of emotion, our character wears a joyful facade concealing a turbulent reality. This performance is a profound exploration, leaving us emotionally moved and empathetic. The character, a puzzle to herself, battles inner turmoil, attempting to spare her partner while causing harm to herself. This unfolding narrative reveals a complex, tormented soul, a precious gift masterfully portrayed by an actor who not only played the role but also wrote and directed—a true pinnacle of artistic expression.=== Cato Catteeuw in Burn