The
announcement was made during a ceremony held at the European Parliament's hemicycle in Brussels. "CLOSE" explores the intense bond between two thirteen-year-old boys, Leo and Remi. When their friendship is unexpectedly shattered, Leo seeks solace in Sophie, Remi's mother, as he grapples with the sudden turn of events.
Director Lukas Dhont, alongside co-author Angelo Tijssens, joyfully accepted the award, expressing their support for authenticity and celebrating self-discovery. The other nominated films included "Alcarràs" by Spanish director Carla Simón, "Burning Days" by Turkish director Emin Alper, "Will-o'-the-Wisp" by Portuguese director João Pedro Rodrigues, and "Triangle of Sadness" by Swedish director Ruben Östlund.
All films were showcased across the European Union with over 500 screenings, subtitled in all 24 official languages of the EU. Over 45,000 ratings were received from European viewers, with an additional 360 ratings from MEPs. The final winner was determined by combining the public vote and the MEP vote, each carrying a 50% weight.
During the ceremony held at the European Parliament, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, presented the award to Lukas Dhont, Angelo Tijssens, and their team. The plenary session of the European Parliament was filled with MEPs and invited partners, with the nominated directors Carla Simón, Emin Alper, João Pedro Rodrigues, and actress Sunnyi Melles representing their films.
The
LUX Audience Award, a joint endeavor by the
European Film Academy and the European Parliament in partnership with the European Commission and Europa Cinemas, carries immense significance.
The LUX Audience Award, established in 2007, aims to promote the diversity of European cinema and stimulate a dialogue between European citizens and filmmakers. Drawing attention to thought-provoking, socially relevant, and artistically outstanding films, the award holds immense importance for the European film industry and its international recognition.
Beyond the European film industry, the LUX Audience Award allows European films to gain international recognition and reach wider audiences. In an era of globalization, the award serves as a platform to showcase the vibrant storytelling and cinematic excellence of European filmmakers on a global stage.
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Credit:Close 2022
