The BFI London Film Festival announced the winners of this year’s LFF Awards, celebrating groundbreaking films from around the globe. Chosen by four esteemed juries, the winning films reflect a fascinating breadth of themes, including a stop-motion triumph, a masterful depiction of an immigrant woman’s alienation, an exquisite documentary on the resilience of an Orthodox nun, and an urgent exploration of growing up deaf in Gaza.
Best Film Award: Memoir of a Snail (dir. Adam Elliot) – This emotionally resonant stop-motion film about separated twins in 1970s Australia moved the jury with its tackling of bullying, loneliness, and grief. Elliot expressed gratitude to his team for bringing the film’s character, Grace Puddle, to life.
Sutherland Award: On Falling (dir. Laura Carreira) – A nuanced portrait of a young Portuguese warehouse employee in Scotland, the film explores human connection amid corporate alienation. Carreira thanked the jury and her cast and crew for their support.
Grierson Award: Mother Vera (dirs. Cécile Embleton, Alys Tomlinson) – This visually striking documentary about an Orthodox nun confronting her past received praise for its emotional depth and aesthetic beauty. The directors expressed their gratitude for the recognition of Vera’s intimate story.
Short Film Award: Vibrations from Gaza (Dir. Rehab Nazzal) – A poignant documentary showcasing the resilience of Palestinian Deaf children amid military attacks. Nazzal thanked the jury for amplifying the experiences of those suffering under occupation.
Special mentions went to On Becoming a Guinea Fowl (Rungano Nyoni) and Olivia & The Clouds (Tomás Pichardo Espaillat) in the Best Film and First Feature categories, respectively.
The popular Audience Awards are now open for voting, with winners to be announced at the end of October. The festival continues to showcase the vital role of cinema in reflecting and challenging societal issues.
