Mubi and Locarno Film Festival Partner on First Feature Prize

As a cinephile who has been following the independent film scene for years, I am thrilled to see Mubi and the Locarno Film Festival joining forces to celebrate emerging talent through the Mubi Award – Debut Feature. As someone who appreciates bold, distinctive storytelling and the aesthetic possibilities of cinema, this collaboration is a perfect fit for me.


As an avid film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news about a new collaboration between my favorite arthouse streamer and distributor, Mubi, and the esteemed Locarno Film Festival. Together, they’ll be presenting a fresh award to a deserving first-timer in this year’s official selection at the Swiss festival.

The Mubi Award – Debut Feature, often referred to as such, is recognized for showcasing unique and daring approaches to storytelling, highlighting the innovative potential of the medium. It shines light on the fresh films that will significantly impact the future of cinema, as stated in a press release from Locarno.

The victorious movie stands to receive a cash prize of 10,000 Swiss francs ($11,000), which will be divided evenly between its director and producer. A potential deal with Mubi may arise, although it’s not guaranteed; however, the possibility certainly exists.

As a film enthusiast, I’m excited to share that the winner of the Mubi Award for Best Debut Feature at Locarno will be chosen by an esteemed jury. This panel consists of three members: Khalil Benkirane, a renowned Moroccan director and producer who oversees grants at the Doha Film Institute; Alma Pöysti, a Finnish actress best known for her role in Aki Kaurismäki’s critically acclaimed film “Fallen Leaves,” distributed by Mubi; and Esmé Sciaroni, a prominent Swiss makeup artist whose recent works include Alice Rohrwacher’s “La Chimera.” I can’t wait to see who will be awarded this prestigious title!

“Mubi, as established by its founder and CEO Efe Cakarel (attending Locarno this year), thrives on showcasing outstanding cinema and the talented filmmakers behind it. Our wish is that this award fosters a fresh wave of storytellers, enabling them to breathe life into their unique narratives and perspectives,” said Mubi in a statement.

Giona A. Nazzaro, the head of the Locarno Film Festival, expressed his delight at partnering with Mubi on a fresh honor. This collaboration, he stated, has the power to unveil unprecedented paths and possibilities for both emerging and established filmmakers.

As a passionate film enthusiast who has attended numerous film festivals throughout my life, I am thrilled to announce that I will be attending the 77th edition of the Locarno Film Festival, Europe’s premier independent cinema event. This year, the festival will run from August 7th to the 17th and promises to showcase some of the most innovative, thought-provoking, and groundbreaking films in the world of indie cinema.

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2024-07-30 11:46