2013 Lux Prize Winner

A few minutes ago in the European Parliament session the winner of the LUX Prize was announced and is none other than Belgium's submission to Oscar, The Broken Circle Breakdown by Felix Van Groeningen. An excellent drama that recommend as must be seen for those that enjoy great European cinema and strongly suggest you do not get put off by the Alabama Monroe title in some countries nor by the American music in film as the first is one character name and the second is there but absolutely fits narrative.


EP President Martin Schulz congratulated the winner and all the finalists: "By telling stories about who we are or who we could be, European films help to create a cultural consciousness for Europe. Film makers do not need us, European politicians, but we politicians need you, the film makers. Stories and emotions can help to develop identity. European films boost a feeling of togetherness in Europe."

Even though MEPs have already picked their favourite film, the public can still vote for theirs on the LUX prize website or on the LUX Prize Facebook page. One lucky winner will be invited to the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in June/July 2014 where the 10 films competing for next year’s prize will be revealed. To vote go here.

The following news were also announced today: Starting 8 March 2014, French/German broadcaster ARTE will make the film "Die Fremde" by Feo Aladag available online for FREE for three months. The film, which won the LUX Prize in 2010, will be available in all 24 EU languages. If you haven't seen it strongly suggest you do.

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8/27
From the ten films chosen to become the 2013 Official Selection that were announced during the 2013 Karlovy Vary fest, three films continue as finalists for the award that will be announced during a formal sitting of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on December 11th. The three films were recently announced and will be screened during Venice fest in the Venice Days (Giornate degli Autori) section.

For the first time a British film has been shortlisted and it is the second time an Italian director is running for the award which is none other than Valeria Golino's directorial debut.

Miele (Honey), Valeria Golino, France and Italy (Cannes Ecumenical Jury Award-special mention - Un Certain Regard)
The Broken Circle Breakdown, Felix Van Groeningen, Belgium (Winner of the Berlinale Audience Award)
The Selfish Giant, Clio Barnad, UK (Cannes Directors' Fortnight)