US director Jim Jarmusch achieved an unexpected triumph at the 2025 Venice Film Festival by winning the prestigious Golden Lion for his latest film, Father Mother Sister Brother. This three-part exploration of the complex relationships between parents and their adult children caught many by surprise, as it had not been a frontrunner for the top prize. Critics had largely anticipated The Voice of Hind Rajab, a poignant true story centered on the tragic killing of a five-year-old Palestinian girl during the Gaza war, to take the top honor.
Despite its gentle comedic tone and positive reviews, Father Mother Sister Brother emerged victorious, with the runner-up Silver Lion awarded to Kaouther Ben Hania for her gripping film. The narrative unfolds across chapters set in New Jersey, Dublin, and Paris, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Cate Blanchett, Tom Waits, Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Charlotte Rampling, Vicky Krieps, Indya Moore, and Luka Sabbat. Each segment captures mundane family interactions, where subtle gestures and unspoken tensions reveal the generational struggles within families.
Recognition and Impact
In a statement following the win, Jarmusch reflected on the competitive nature of filmmaking, saying, “All of us here who make films, we’re not motivated by competition. But this is something I truly appreciate, this unexpected honour.” His career began in the 1980s with unique, low-budget films, and this recognition marks a significant milestone.
In other award categories, Italy’s Toni Servillo took home the best actor award for his role in La Grazia, directed by his long-time collaborator Paolo Sorrentino. The best actress award went to Xin Zhilei for her performance in The Sun Rises On Us All, a drama directed by Cai Shangjun, which delves into themes of sacrifice and unresolved emotions between estranged lovers.
Cultural Context and Political Undertones
The Venice Film Festival, traditionally regarded as glamorous and less politically charged, showcased films this year that resonated deeply with current events. The ongoing Israeli invasion of Gaza loomed large over the festival, influencing the narratives presented. During the unveiling of his film, Jarmusch expressed concern regarding his distributor’s connections to a company linked to the Israeli military.
“Cinema cannot bring Hind back, nor can it erase the atrocity committed against her. Nothing can ever restore what was taken, but cinema can preserve her voice, make it resonate across borders,” stated Ben Hania regarding her film.
The Voice of Hind Rajab captivated audiences, earning a record-breaking 24-minute standing ovation at its premiere. The emotional weight of the film highlights the brutal realities of conflict and the importance of storytelling in preserving voices like that of the young girl at its center.
Best director honors were awarded to Benny Safdie for his portrayal of Mark Kerr, a real-life pioneer in mixed martial arts. Safdie expressed his amazement at being in the company of esteemed filmmakers, stating, “To be here amongst the giants of the past and the giants here this year, it just blows my mind.”
The special jury award went to Gianfranco Rosi for his documentary Below the Clouds, which examines life in the tumultuous southern city of Naples, grappling with frequent earthquakes and volcanic threats. Despite strong reviews, several films, including a trio from Netflix such as Guillermo del Toro’s reimagining of Frankenstein and Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, left the festival without any accolades.
The Venice Film Festival continues to be a significant launchpad for films seeking recognition in the awards season, with many entries over the past four years garnering over 90 Oscar nominations and securing nearly 20 wins. As the festival concludes, its impact on the global film landscape remains profound.
