Chilean Film Wins Top Cannes Un Certain Regard Prize

Diego Céspedes' debut feature, 'The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo,' won the top Un Certain Regard award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, with Céspedes dedicating the prize to those who persist in their identities despite discomfort. The film was recognized for its bold storytelling about a queer family in 1980s Chile during the AIDS epidemic. The Jury Prize went to 'A Poet' by Simón Mesa Soto, while Palestinian twins Tarzan and Arab Nasser won Best Director for 'Once Upon a Time in Gaza,' using their speech to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Cléo Diara received a performance award for 'I Only Rest in the Storm,' and Frank Dillane was honored for 'Urchin.' Though this year's section included directorial debuts from Kristen Stewart, Scarlett Johansson, and Harris Dickinson, none won awards. The jury praised Céspedes' work for its raw power and unique perspective, underscoring Un Certain Regard’s support for emerging voices.