Vietnamese director Duong Dieu Linh’s ‘Don’t Cry, Butterfly’ triumphs at Venice Critics’ Week
A unique blend of horror and comedy
In a remarkable achievement, Duong Dieu Linh’s horror-comedy film, Don’t Cry, Butterfly, has emerged as the standout winner at the Venice Critics’ Week. The film not only clinched the grand prize but also received accolades for being the most innovative feature. This Hanoi-set movie, which marks Duong Dieu Linh’s directorial debut, delves into the life of a housewife who resorts to voodoo to rekindle her husband’s love, only to invite a mysterious presence into her home.
Don’t Cry, Butterfly is a companion piece to Duong’s award-winning short film series about middle-aged women, including A Trip to Heaven, Sweet, Salty, and Mother, Daughter, Dreams. These films explore themes of womanhood, family relations, and cultural traditions, all told through a quirky sense of humor and magical realism.
Jury’s praise for innovation and creativity
The main jury, consisting of producer Kerem Ayan, director Yasmine Benkiran, and actor-director Ariane Labed, lauded Don’t Cry, Butterfly for its “singularity and creativity.” They appreciated the film’s experimental approach, blending comedy, social drama, and fantasy, and its nuanced portrayal of the mother-daughter relationship.
The film also won the award for the most innovative feature, decided by a five-person jury of individuals under the age of 35. This recognition underscores the film’s fresh perspective and inventive storytelling.
Special mention for ‘No Sleep Till’
The jury awarded a special mention to Alexandra Simpson’s U.S.-Switzerland co-production, No Sleep Till. This visually striking film captures the lives of locals in a small Florida beach town threatened by a hurricane. The jury praised it for its contemporary relevance, stunning photography, tender portrayal of characters, and its powerful, melancholic atmosphere.
No Sleep Till stands out for its dreamy, evocative visuals and its poignant exploration of community and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
Best indie production: ‘Anywhere Anytime’
Italy-based Iranian director Milad Tangshir’s Anywhere Anytime won the prize for best indie production. The film draws inspiration from Vittorio De Sica’s neorealist classic Bicycle Thieves, reimagining it in a contemporary setting. This modern take on a timeless story highlights the enduring relevance of neorealist themes in today’s world.
Anywhere Anytime offers a fresh perspective on the struggles of ordinary people, capturing the essence of human resilience and hope.
Audience favorite: ‘Paul & Paulette Take A Bath’
British-French filmmaker Jethro Massey’s debut, Paul & Paulette Take A Bath, won the audience award with an impressive average score of 4.5/5. This rom-com follows a young American photographer and a French girl with a taste for the macabre as they embark on a morbid road trip. The film’s unique blend of romance and dark humor resonated with audiences, making it a crowd favorite.
Paul & Paulette Take A Bath is a delightful exploration of love, adventure, and the unexpected twists that life can take.
Best technical contribution: ‘Homegrown’
U.S. journalist and filmmaker Michael Premo’s documentary Homegrown received the prize for best technical contribution. The film chronicles a group of Donald Trump supporters from the 2020 campaign trail to the attack on the U.S. Capitol. Homegrown offers a compelling and timely examination of political fervor and its consequences.
Homegrown provides an in-depth look at a pivotal moment in recent American history, capturing the complexities and emotions of those involved.
Reflections on the Venice Critics’ Week
The Venice Critics’ Week has once again showcased a diverse array of films that push the boundaries of storytelling and cinematic expression. From the innovative blend of genres in Don’t Cry, Butterfly to the poignant exploration of community in No Sleep Till, this year’s winners highlight the power of cinema to reflect and shape our understanding of the world.
For cinema enthusiasts, these films offer a rich tapestry of narratives and styles, each with its own unique voice and vision. Whether you’re drawn to the magical realism of Duong Dieu Linh’s work or the contemporary relevance of Alexandra Simpson’s storytelling, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.
As we celebrate these achievements, it’s clear that the future of cinema is bright, with filmmakers continuing to innovate and inspire audiences around the globe.