The 22nd Zurich Film Festival has officially wrapped, and the winners’ list is giving major main character energy. French director Pierre Le Gall just took home the top prize—the Golden Eye—for his feature debut, "Flesh and Fuel." The film follows a French long-distance trucker named Étienne whose lonely life does a 180 when he meets a fun-loving Polish driver named Bartosz. It’s a border-crossing romance that is honestly a total mood.
The winners circle
Alexis Manenti, who you might know from his César-winning turn in "Les Misérables," stars in the film. The jury was clearly obsessed, noting how the film explores the "fundamental human need for connection" in a world that feels increasingly isolated. It’s lowkey deep.
On the documentary side, "Bucks Harbor" by Pete Muller snagged the Golden Eye. The film dives into the raw reality of a Maine fishing village, exploring "fragile masculinity" and how rural communities deal with climate change. Talk about a reality check.
Beyond the top prizes
It wasn't just about the main winners. The Audience Award went to Andrina Mračnikar’s "Mila/Marija," while the Science Award was claimed by "We Are Stardust" by Elisabeth Rasmussen. Special mentions were also handed out to "The Guest," "A Girl Unknown," "One in a Million," and "My Home of Wind and Sand."
Festival director Reta Guetg pointed out that these wins prove the incredible "courage and originality" of directors showcasing their early works. Plus, the festival was lowkey stacked with icons like Julianne Moore, Tom Hiddleston, and Naomi Watts hanging out alongside legends like Danny Boyle and Richard Linklater.
Why it matters
Zurich is doubling down on highlighting first, second, and third-time directors. By giving these up-and-coming creators a massive platform, the festival is making sure fresh, diverse perspectives are the ones shaping the future of film—and we are here for it.
