Chilean Film ‘The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo’ Wins Un Certain Regard at Cannes

Chilean film ‘The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo’ wins Un Certain Regard Prize at Cannes. The film tells the story of Lidia, an 11-year-old girl in 1982 facing stigma amidst a mysterious disease. Colombian film ‘A Poet’ wins the Jury Prize, while ‘Pillion’ takes home Best Screenplay. Palestinian directors receive Best Director award and various performance awards recognize standout acting.
In a notable achievement at the Cannes Film Festival, Chilean drama “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo,” directed by Diego Céspedes, has clinched the prestigious Un Certain Regard Prize. This film, set against the backdrop of 1982, tells the poignant story of eleven-year-old Lidia, who navigates life with her queer family in a northern Chile mining town amidst the onset of a mysterious and deadly disease believed to spread through romantic glances between men. Faced with stigma and societal condemnation, Lidia embarks on a quest to discern the truth behind this unsettling legend.
Another highlight from Cannes was Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto’s second feature, “A Poet,” which secured the Jury Prize. The narrative revolves around Oscar Restrepo, a failed poet whose life takes a turn when he encounters Yurlady, a young girl with potential. As he attempts to mentor her, he grapples with the damaging allure of the poet’s lifestyle that he himself has populated.
British filmmaker Harry Lighton’s debut feature, “Pillion,” received the Best Screenplay award. This film features Harry Melling as Colin, a shy young man exploring his sexuality under the guidance of a biker named Ray, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård. Their relationship delves into the complexities of submission and power dynamics.
Palestinian directors Tarzan and Arab Nasser earned the Best Director accolade for their film “Once Upon a Time in Gaza.” Meanwhile, performance honors went to Cléo Diara for her role in “I Only Rest in the Storm” and Frank Dillane for his performance in “Urchin,” which was directed by Harris Dickinson.
The jury for this year’s awards was chaired by Molly Manning Walker, a prominent UK director and screenwriter. Her esteemed panel included Louise Courvoisier from France, Vanja Kaludjercic from the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Roberto Minervini from Italy, and Argentinian actor Nahuel Pérez Biscayart. Their diverse experience contributed significantly to the selection of this year’s winners at Cannes.
The Cannes Film Festival once again showcased remarkable storytelling and talent, with significant honors awarded to works of profound cultural and artistic merit. “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo” stands out, offering an intimate exploration of love, societal judgment, and the search for truth within a unique familial context. The diverse array of films recognized at Cannes reflects the vibrant and complex narratives shaping contemporary cinema, promising a rich viewing experience ahead.
Original Source: ca.news.yahoo.com