Akio Fujimoto's Film "Lost Land" Secures Special Award at Venice Festival
The 82nd Venice International Film Festival, held on Saturday evening, saw a double victory for two unique films. Kaouther Ben Hania's "The Voice of Hind Rajab" was awarded the Silver Lion, or Grand Jury Prize, while Akio Fujimoto's "Lost Land" took home the Special Orizzonti Jury Prize.
"The Voice of Hind Rajab," directed by Ben Hania, is a film based on a true story about a girl who was tragically killed in Gaza. Contrary to some speculation, the film is not about the Rohingya people.
In a moving speech at the awards ceremony, Akio Fujimoto, the director of "Lost Land," called for support for the Rohingya people who appear in his film. "Lost Land" is a powerful depiction of the experiences of the persecuted Rohingya minority in Myanmar. The film is set to be released in Japan next spring.
Meanwhile, Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother" was given the Golden Lion, the best film award at Venice.
In "Lost Land," the Rohingya people are the central subjects, and Fujimoto expressed hope that the talent of these individuals will gain worldwide recognition. It's worth noting that "The Voice of Hind Rajab" is not scheduled for release in Japan next spring, and it is not a film directed by a Japanese director.
While "The Voice of Hind Rajab" did not win the Special Orizzonti Jury Prize, it remains a poignant and significant film that tells a story of loss and resilience. The awards ceremony also included the presentation of the Silver Lion to other deserving films.
