Locarno Film Festival 2025

One of the most prestigious Film Festivals in the world; for its 78th year, the Locarno Film Festival unfolded from August 6 to August 16, 2025, in the picturesque town of Locarno, Switzerland, carrying forward its long tradition since its founding in 1946. The opening Film of the Film Festival was In the Land of Arto by Tamara Stepanyan, and the curtains were closed with Bill Condon’s Kiss of the Spider Woman, framing a rich and engaging ten-day cinematic journey, in the beautiful Switzerland.

Highlights Worth Noting

One standout moment was the awarding of the Golden Leopard, the most prestigious prize of the Film Festival, to Two Seasons, Two Strangers by Japanese Director Sho Miyake; a landmark win, marking the first time in eighteen years that a Japanese Filmmaker has taken home this honour. The Film, inspired by two works by manga artist Yoshiharu Tsuge, follows the aimless journey of a Screenwriter and features notable performances by Shim Eun-kyung, Shinichi Tsutsumi, and Yumi Kawai.

The Special Jury Prize went to White Snail by Elsa Kremser and Levin Peter; a work that captured critical attention for its creative vision. Industry recognition continued with Alexander Payne, who received the Leopard of Honour (a lifetime achievement award), acknowledging his enduring contribution to auteur cinema.

The visual identity of the Film Festival was another point of pride. The 2025 Film Festival poster, designed by German artist Wolfgang Tillmans, depicted the iconic leopard perched on a tree branch, set against bold yellow and purple abstract patterns; an image celebrated for reflecting “a world where people can coexist and collaborate,” as noted by Artistic Director Giona A. Nazzaro.

Winners at a Glance

  • Golden Leopard (Best Film): Two Seasons, Two Strangers (Sho Miyake)
  • Special Jury Prize: White Snail (Elsa Kremser & Levin Peter)
  • Leopard of Honour: Alexander Payne (lifetime achievement)

 

Final Thoughts

The 78th edition of the Locarno Film Festival was a vibrant reaffirmation of its mission: to celebrate daring cinema, elevate new voices, and provide a platform where artistic discovery thrives. Between the open-air screenings at the iconic Piazza Grande, the boundary-pushing competition selections, and the Recognition of Filmmakers like Sho Miyake and Alexander Payne, the Film Festival once again underscored its reputation as a crucible for visionary storytelling and cinematic craft. 

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