Palm Springs Film Festival 2024: Complete List of Award Winners

The 35th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival, which ran from January 4-15, 2024, has officially announced its array of award winners. The festival showcased an impressive lineup of 184 films from more than 70 countries, including 48 premieres. The juried award categories covered a broad spectrum, acknowledging films from the International Feature Film Oscar® Submissions program, documentaries, and fresh perspectives from new directors.

The FIPRESCI Prize for Best International Feature Film was awarded to "Four Daughters" from Tunisia, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania. This film was recognized for its compelling portrayal of a

Tunisian family's tragic disintegration, blending fact, meta-fiction, and confessional therapy in a powerful narrative. The FIPRESCI Prize for Best International Screenplay went to "The Zone of Interest" from the United Kingdom, directed by Jonathan Glazer, commended for its unnerving and beautifully restrained storytelling.

In the acting categories, the FIPRESCI Prize for the Best Actress in an International Feature Film was awarded to Leonie Benesch for her role in "The Teacher’s Lounge" (Germany), directed by İlker Çatak. Mads Mikkelsen received the FIPRESCI Prize for Best Actor for his performance in "The Promised Land" (Denmark), directed by Nikolaj Arcel.

The Best Documentary Award was presented to "The Echo" (Mexico/Germany), directed by Tatiana Huezo, for its masterful cinematic presentation and exploration of life and maturity in a family and community. A special mention was given to "This World is Not My Own" (United States/Sweden), directed by Petter Ringbom and Marquise Stillwell.

"The Animal Kingdom" (France), directed by Thomas Cailley, received the New Voices New Visions Award for its unique blend of socio-political and ecological themes with genre. "Animalia" (Morocco/Qatar/France), directed by Sofia Alaoui, received a special mention.

The Ibero-American Award was presented to "Power Alley" (Brazil/France/Uruguay), directed by Lillah Halla, recognized for its intense exploration of a globally relevant issue. The film "20,000 Species of Bees" (Spain) directed by Estibaliz Urresola Solaguren received a special mention.

"Wonderland" (Singapore/Malaysia/United States), directed by Chai Yee-Wei, won the Local Jury Award for its universal and timeless themes. The Young Cineastes Award went to "Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person" (Canada), directed by Ariane Louis-Seize, applauded for its portrayal of youth and individuality.

In the category of the MOZAIK Bridging the Borders Award, "Green Border" (Poland/France/Czech Republic/Belgium), directed by Agnieszka Holland, was honored for its success in connecting people globally. A special mention was given to "The Old Oak" (United Kingdom/France/Belgium), directed by Ken Loach.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival continues to be a significant platform for showcasing diverse filmmaking talent and honoring outstanding contributions to cinema. The festival's selection included 41 International Feature Film Oscar® Submissions, reflecting its commitment to presenting a wide array of stories from around the globe. With a variety of categories, the awards highlighted films that excel in storytelling, creativity, and the power to connect audiences across cultural boundaries.

This annual event not only celebrates the art of film but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through its diverse programming. Looking ahead, the Palm Springs ShortFest is scheduled to return from June 18-24, 2024, promising another round of exceptional short films and emerging filmmaking talent.