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Jarmusch Wins Golden Lion at Venice, Sparking Debate
the Award and Initial Reaction
the 81st Venice Film Festival concluded on September 9, 2024, with Alexander Payne, serving as jury president, awarding the Golden Lion for Best Film to Jim Jarmusch‘s “Father Mother Sister Brother.” The decision promptly generated discussion, as many anticipated Kaouther Ben Hania’s “The Voice of Hind Rajab” would claim the top prize.
Ben Hania’s film, a harrowing depiction of life in Gaza, received a powerful 22-minute standing ovation during its premiere,fueling expectations for a Golden Lion win.Instead,it was awarded the Grand Jury Prize,the festival’s second-highest honor. Payne faced a barrage of questions regarding the jury’s choice, defending the selection of Jarmusch’s film as a work of profound artistry.
About the Winning Films
“Father Mother Sister Brother” is a black-and-white, formally experimental film that explores themes of family, memory, and loss. Jarmusch’s signature minimalist style and contemplative pacing were key elements in the film’s reception. The film stars Hong Sang-soo regulars, and is a departure from Jarmusch’s more well-known work.
“The Voice of Hind Rajab,” conversely, is a deeply affecting documentary that centers on a young Palestinian girl’s experience during the conflict in Gaza. The film utilizes a unique narrative structure, incorporating animation and direct testimony to convey the emotional weight of the story. Its raw emotional power resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
The Jury’s deliberations and Payne’s Defense
Payne acknowledged the emotional impact of “The Voice of Hind Rajab” but emphasized that the jury’s decision was based on a holistic assessment of artistic merit. He stated that Jarmusch’s film demonstrated a mastery of cinematic form and a unique vision that ultimately swayed the jury. The jury, comprised of Jane Campion, Laura Poitras, and other prominent filmmakers, reportedly engaged in lengthy and passionate debates before reaching a consensus.
Some critics have suggested that the jury may have been hesitant to award a major prize to a film with such overtly political subject matter, fearing accusations of bias. However, Payne dismissed these claims, asserting that the jury’s decision was solely based on artistic considerations.
Venice Film Festival Awards: A Summary
| Award | Film | Director |
|---|---|---|
| Golden lion | Father Mother Sister brother | Jim Jarmusch |
Grand
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