Danish filmmaker's post-war drama wins Venice's top prize and best actress award

Danish filmmaker May el-Toukhy's post-war drama Woman Unknown claimed the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, with lead actress Mathilde Arcel simultaneously winning best actress honours in an unusual double victory.

Sole woman director in competition

El-Toukhy was the only woman directing a feature film among the 21 entries in the main competition line-up, a gender disparity that attracted criticism throughout the festival and triggered fresh examination of obstacles women face in the film industry.

Story of occupation and its aftermath

The film centres on a housemaid portrayed by Arcel whose earlier relationship with a German soldier jeopardizes her future. Set in post-World War II Denmark, the narrative takes place during a period when women accused of associating with German occupation forces frequently faced vigilante justice.

In her acceptance speech, el-Toukhy said: "To me personally, Woman Unknown is about the female body as a battleground and a public matter. And at the same time, the film tells the tale of women who are invisible, unseen, and voiceless".

Other major awards

The runner-up Silver Lion went to South Korean auteur Lee Chang-dong for Possible Love. Russian-born filmmaker Ilya Khrzhanovsky received best director for DAU, described as a highly ambitious project filmed primarily in Ukraine before the current war, which has drawn significant scrutiny and controversy.

The Venice Film Festival awards recognize work from one of the world's oldest and most prestigious cinema events, offering a platform for international films competing across multiple categories.

Source: South China Morning Post