The 36th European Film Academy Awards, also known as the European Oscars, took place on 9 December 2023 in Berlin. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of European filmmakers in various categories, from Best Film to Best Documentary.
The big winner of the night was Anatomy of a Fall, a French drama directed by Justine Triet. The film, which explores the aftermath of a terrorist attack in Paris, won five awards, including best film, best director, best screenplay, best editing and best actress for Sandra Hüller, who plays a journalist investigating the incident.
The film was praised by critics for its complex and nuanced portrayal of trauma, media and politics. Triet, who co-wrote the script with Arthur Harari, said in her acceptance speech that she wanted to make a film that was “honest, brave and human”.
Another notable winner was Mads Mikkelsen, who won best actor for his role in The Promised Land, a Polish-Danish historical drama directed by Jan Komasa. Mikkelsen plays a 17th century mercenary who becomes involved in a peasant uprising against Swedish invaders. The film, which was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director and Best Screenplay, was praised for its epic scope, stunning cinematography and powerful performances.
Honorary awards went to two veteran actresses and a visionary director. Vanessa Redgrave, the British legend who has starred in over 100 films, received the European Achievement in World Cinema Award for her outstanding contribution to the art of film. She thanked the European Film Academy for the honour and said she was “proud to be part of the European film family”.
Isabel Coixet, the Spanish filmmaker who has directed 18 feature films, received the European Contribution to World Cinema Award for her distinctive and diverse body of work. Dedicating the award to her collaborators and mentors, she said she was “grateful for the opportunity to tell stories that matter”.
Uljana Kim, the Lithuanian producer who has been involved in more than 40 co-productions, received the European Co-Production Award for her outstanding commitment to fostering international collaboration. She said she was “honoured to receive this recognition from my peers and colleagues”.
The ceremony, hosted by German comedian Michael Mittermeier, also featured musical performances, video messages and tributes to the nominees and winners. The event was broadcast live on various platforms and channels across Europe and beyond.
The European Film Academy Awards are voted for by more than 3,800 members of the European Film Academy, representing film professionals from 44 countries. The awards aim to promote the diversity, creativity and excellence of European cinema.
The European Film Academy Awards 2023 showcased the diversity of European cinema and the achievements of filmmakers who have pushed the boundaries of their craft. The awards celebrated the power of cinema to inspire, educate and entertain audiences around the world. 🎥🏆👏
