Italian
German drama “Every You Every Me” triumphs at MIFFest
A night of cinematic excellence
The 7th edition of the Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) concluded with a celebration of global cinema, awarding the Golden Global Awards to outstanding films and talents. The German drama “Every You Every Me” (also known as “Alle Die Du Bist”) emerged as the best film, captivating audiences and critics alike with its poignant storytelling.
A tale of reconnection
Directed by Michael Fetter Nathansky, “Every You Every Me” delves into the complexities of a woman striving to reconnect with her partner amidst a deteriorating relationship. The film had its world premiere in February at the Berlinale and has since garnered significant acclaim. At MIFFest, it not only won the best film award but also saw Aenne Schwarz receive the best actress accolade, while Nathansky was honored with the best screenplay award.
“The film boldly confronts the real-life challenges faced by the working class, particularly the struggles associated with monetary deficits, skillfully transforming these harsh realities into cinematic excellence,” stated the jury.
For more details, you can watch the trailer for Every You Every Me.
Celebrating fearless storytelling
The best director award was bestowed upon the duo Alireza Ghasemi and Raha Amirfazli for their film “In the Land of Brothers”. This compelling narrative follows three members of an Afghan family who are refugees in Iran, shedding light on a globally relevant issue with fearless storytelling.
Stellar performances
Taiwanese star Wu Kang-ren was awarded best actor for his portrayal of a mute man in the Taiwan-Malaysia co-production “Abang Adik”. The film has been a favorite on the international festival circuit, winning accolades at the Far East Film Festival (Udine), Fribourg, the First Youth Film Festival, and Taiwan’s Golden Horse Film Festival. Jack Tan also received the best supporting actor award for his role in the same film.
China’s You Junfen earned the best supporting actress award for her performance in “The Great Phuket”.
Visual artistry and emerging talents
Tojo Xavier was recognized with the best cinematography award for his work in “Rapture”, showcasing his exceptional ability to capture the film’s visual essence. The emerging talents award went to “Betania” and Brazilian director Marcelo Botta, highlighting the festival’s commitment to nurturing new voices in cinema.
Honoring legends
The festival also paid tribute to Asian cinema icons Christine Hakim and Kore-eda Hirokazu with Lifetime Achievement Awards. In his acceptance speech, Kore-eda emphasized the universal power of cinema, resonating with the festival’s theme of global storytelling.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, witnessing the recognition of films like “Every You Every Me” and “In the Land of Brothers” is a reminder of the transformative power of storytelling. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought and empathy, bridging cultural and social divides. The accolades received by these films at MIFFest underscore the importance of festivals in bringing diverse narratives to a global audience.
For those who appreciate the art of filmmaking, the success of “Abang Adik” and the recognition of emerging talents like Marcelo Botta offer a glimpse into the future of cinema. These awards celebrate not just the final product but the dedication and creativity that go into crafting compelling stories.
Exploring the trailers
To further immerse yourself in these award-winning films, check out the trailers and information pages:
The enduring impact of MIFFest
MIFFest continues to be a beacon for filmmakers and audiences, celebrating the rich tapestry of global cinema. The festival’s recognition of diverse stories and talents reaffirms the enduring impact of film as a medium for cultural exchange and understanding. As we look forward to future editions, the legacy of this year’s winners will undoubtedly inspire and influence the next generation of filmmakers.
