Yorgos Lanthimos’s “Poor Things” Wins FIPRESCI Grand Prix 2024 for Best Film of the Year
Yorgos Lanthimos's film "Poor Things" has been honored with the FIPRESCI Grand Prix 2024, recognizing it as the Best Film of the Year. This marks a significant achievement for the Greek director, as this is the first time he has received this prestigious award from the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI). The film was chosen by 791 critics worldwide, standing out among all films that premiered after July 1, 2023.
"Poor Things," a British production, was first introduced to audiences at the 2023 Venice Film Festival, where it won the Golden Lion for Best Film. This accolade marked the beginning of a successful journey on the international film circuit. Since then, the film has garnered multiple awards, including two Golden Globes and five BAFTAs. It also earned eleven Oscar nominations, securing four wins, including Best Actress for Emma Stone.
The film is an adaptation of Alasdair Gray's novel of the same name and features a stellar cast, including Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe, and Ramy Youssef. The story centers around Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by an eccentric scientist, Dr. Godwin Baxter. Bella's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment as she navigates a world that challenges the conventions of her time.
The FIPRESCI Grand Prix will be officially presented to Lanthimos on September 20 at the opening gala of the 72nd San Sebastian International Film Festival in Spain. On the same day, "Poor Things" will be screened for festival attendees, with the specific time to be announced on September 9.
The FIPRESCI Grand Prix, established in 1999, has been awarded to some of the most renowned filmmakers in the industry, including Pedro Almodóvar, Michael Haneke, Terrence Malick, and Chloé Zhao. Lanthimos now joins this illustrious group, further cementing his place as one of the leading voices in contemporary cinema.