Grand Prize Winner Announced at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival
At the long-standing cinema gathering held in Italy, victory went to the production signed by director May el-Toukhy.
The closing ceremony of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival was held at the Sala Grande, and the top prize, the Golden Lion, was won by director May el-Toukhy's film Kvinde Ukendt.
Festival Closing and the Golden Lion
The 2026 closing ceremony of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, held in Venice, Italy, took place at the Sala Grande.
The Golden Lion, the festival's highest award, was given to director May el-Toukhy's film titled Kvinde Ukendt.
Silver Lion and Jury Special Award
The Silver Lion award for best director was granted to Russian-born British citizen Ilya Khrzhanovsky for his film Dau.
The film NAZA, which documents Israel's civilian massacre in Gaza, became the recipient of the Jury Special Award.
Best Actor and Actress Awards
The best actor award went to U.S. actor John Malkovich for his performance in the film Wild Horse Nine.
The best actress award was granted to Danish actress Mathilde Arcel for her role in the film Kvinde Ukendt.
Screenplay Award and Protests
In the main competition category, the best screenplay award was given to Stephane Brize, Coralie Amedeo, and Olivier Gorce, the screenwriters of the film Un bon Petit Soldat.
Prior to the award night, a pro-Palestinian group flew kites made from Palestinian flags on the beaches of the Lido Island and made demands.
Dates for Next Year
The pro-Palestinian group asked the festival management to hoist the Palestinian flag next year just like those of other countries.
During the announcements made within the scope of the closing ceremony, it was announced that the 84th Venice International Film Festival will be held from September 1-11, 2027.