The Best International Feature Film award went to the Brazilian film “I’m Still Here,” which was the festival’s surprise winner. The festival, which took place from January 2 to 13, 2025, featured 165 films from 71 countries, including 35 films competing for the Academy Awards’ International Feature Film category.
“I’m Still Here,” directed by Walter Salles, gives a touching view of life as a regime takes hold. The international jury applauded the film for its strong story, which highlighted its intimate portrayal of a mother’s fight to keep her family safe and maintain her dignity during a crucial historical moment. The jury noted that Salles shows this truth clearly and effectively without being overly dramatic.
Zoe Saldaña won the FIPRESCI Prize for Best Actress for her strong performance in the movie Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard. Even though her part was meant to be supportive, the jury recognized her impressive acting skills. They felt that her portrayal of a complicated character strongly advanced the story, similar to a leading role.
The Best Actor award was given to the whole group of “Kneecap,” an Irish film that was nominated for an Oscar. The jury praised Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Provái for their smooth performances as musicians in their first acting roles. They complimented the trio for bringing new and exciting energy to studying national identity.
In the documentary category, “No Other Land” had a great festival journey by getting the Best Documentary Award at Palm Springs. A group of Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers created a documentary that shows the harsh reality of life in the occupied West Bank. The jury liked how the work deeply explored the lives of Palestinian villagers and mentioned the strong bond between its creators.
The festival highlighted new talent with the New Voices New Visions Award, given to Romanian director Bogdan Mureșanu for his film, “The New Year That Never Came.” The jury praised Mureșanu for skillfully combining different stories and using dark humor to show the effects of the Ceausescu dictatorship.
The Mexican film Sujo, directed by Astrid Rondero and Fernanda Valadez, won the Ibero-American Award for its “elegant, nuanced portrayal” of a young boy facing violence and poverty. The film’s careful timing, poetic style, great acting, and beautiful visuals have made its makers well-known figures in modern Mexican cinema.
The Desert Views Award, chosen by local judges, honored Joshua Zeman’s documentary Checkpoint Zoo. The film highlights Ukrainian volunteers saving animals during the Russian attack. The Young Cineastes Award, selected by high school students, was given to “Tatami,” a film co-directed by Zar Amir Ebrahimi and Guy Nattiv.
The festival had 68 new shows and will be followed by the Palm Springs ShortFest, which will take place from June 24 to 30, 2025.
