The Moscow International Film Festival, the second-oldest film event in the world, recently concluded its 47th edition. The festival, which boasts a legacy of 90 years, came to a close on Thursday night (April 24). This year, the Indian regional Khasi-language film The Elysian Field made a stunning impact by winning the Best Film Award.
The film took home three major accolades: Best Film, Best Director, and the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film. This remarkable achievement marks a proud moment for Indian regional cinema and a historic milestone for the recognition of the Khasi language on the global stage.
The Elysian Field secured both the festival’s highest honors—the Golden Saint George and the Silver Saint George awards. Director Pradip Kurbah was also honored with the Best Director award for his exceptional work on the film.
The story of The Elysian Field delves into rural solitude, human relationships, and the struggle for survival, offering a poignant and touching portrayal of village life.
In this year’s edition, the Best Actor award went to Yevgeny Tsyganov for his outstanding performance in the Russian film Family Happiness. Meanwhile, Maria Rodriguez Soto received the Best Actress award for her brilliant acting in the Spanish film A House on Fire.
The Silver Saint George Jury Prize was awarded to Kazakhstan’s film Evacuation, directed by Farhat Sharipov. The Best Documentary award went to China’s Miss Hu’s Garden, directed by Pan Zhiqi. Spain’s Bumblebee, directed by Fonk Cortizo, was named Best Short Film at the festival. In the Russian Premieres category, License to Love, directed by Anton Maslov, was awarded Best Film. The Audience Award was given to Two People in One Life and a Dog, directed by Andrei Zaitsev.
In addition to the competitive awards, special honors were also presented. Legendary Russian actor Vladimir Ilyin received a lifetime achievement recognition for his outstanding contribution to world cinema, while Vladimir Mashkov was honored with the Stanislavsky Award.
A Moment of Pride for Bangladesh
This year’s festival also brought pride to Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi film Mastul competed in the main competition and received special recognition from the International Film Federation. Additionally, another Bangladeshi film, Noya Thikana, participated in the short film competition and received praise from both audiences and critics.