Jafar Panahi Rome Honor; Berlin 90s Retrospective; Charades Distribution Prize & James Benning Film Fest Gent Tribute – Festival Briefs

France has selected Jafar Panahi's film 'It Was Just an Accident' to represent the country in the Oscars' International Feature category. This film, which won the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, stands out among other contenders like Richard Linklater's 'Nouvelle Vague' and Rebecca Zlotowski's 'A Private Life.' This selection not only highlights the film's artistic merit but also showcases France's commitment to promoting diverse cinematic voices on a global stage.

France has chosen Jafar Panahi's acclaimed film 'It Was Just An Accident' as its candidate for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. This selection, made by a committee from France's National Cinema Centre, highlights the film's artistic merit and the country's commitment to showcasing exceptional international cinema. Panahi's work has garnered significant recognition, and this nomination could further elevate his profile on the global stage.

Kristen Stewart's directorial debut, 'The Chronology of Water,' has been acquired by BFI Distribution for the UK and Ireland, following a successful festival tour that began with its premiere at Cannes. This acquisition is significant as it allows UK audiences to experience Stewart's artistic vision, showcasing her growth as a filmmaker and the film's potential impact on the indie film scene.

Khadar Ayderus Ahmed, the talented Finnish Somali filmmaker known for his acclaimed debut 'The Gravedigger’s Wife,' is working on an exciting new project titled 'Thundering Smoke.' This film tells the story of a middle-aged Somali hitwoman seeking vengeance against a crime boss in her village. This project is significant as it showcases diverse narratives in cinema and highlights Ahmed's unique voice in storytelling, which will be presented at the Finnish Film Affair.

Colombia has chosen Simón Mesa Soto's film 'A Poet' as its entry for the 2026 Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. This film, which premiered at Cannes and won the jury prize in the Un Certain Regard section, has already made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). This selection highlights Colombia's growing presence in the international film scene and showcases the talent of emerging filmmakers like Soto.

David Puttnam will receive an Industry Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival in October. The acclaimed producer is known for films like Chariots of Fire and The Killing Fields.

Editor’s Note: This recognition highlights Puttnam's significant contributions to cinema and celebrates his legacy in the film industry. It also draws attention to the Rome Film Festival, which showcases international talent.

The review of 'Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery' highlights the significance of the 1990s music festival that celebrated women in rock music. Named after a mythological figure, Lilith Fair provided a platform for female artists and fostered a sense of community and empowerment during a time when the music industry was predominantly male. This documentary not only recalls the festival's impact but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality in music, making it a relevant watch for both nostalgic fans and new audiences.

Mario Lopez is set to host the 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on October 17 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. This exciting announcement from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences highlights Lopez's role as a prominent figure in entertainment, especially since the event will be featured as highlights on 'Access Hollywood,' which he also hosts. This partnership not only elevates the visibility of the awards but also showcases Lopez's versatility and popularity in the industry.

Variety is set to honor several remarkable women, including Sydney Sweeney and Nicole Scherzinger, at its Power of Women event on October 29 in Beverly Hills. This celebration, in partnership with Lifetime, not only recognizes their achievements but also highlights the importance of female empowerment in the entertainment industry. By showcasing these influential figures, Variety aims to inspire others and promote a culture of support and recognition for women's contributions.

Exciting news in the film world as Paul Walter Hauser is set to join Austin Abrams in the upcoming 'Resident Evil' movie directed by Zach Cregger. Following the success of his previous project, Cregger is diving into this adaptation for Sony Pictures, which is based on the beloved Capcom video game series. This film is generating buzz not only for its star-studded cast but also for the potential to bring a fresh take on a classic franchise, making it a highly anticipated release for fans.

Exciting news for fans of young adult literature! Jerry Spinelli's novel 'Dead Wednesday' is being adapted into a film, with Alex Haughey set to direct. This adaptation is significant as it brings a beloved story to a new audience, showcasing the themes of youth and resilience that resonate with many. With a talented production team including Noam Dromi and Inspired Girl, this project promises to capture the essence of the book while reaching viewers on the big screen.

The upcoming 'Dawson's Creek' reunion, initiated by Michelle Williams, promises to be a heartfelt event, especially following James Van Der Beek's recent cancer diagnosis. Williams reached out to creator Kevin Williamson, who eagerly joined her in organizing the reunion alongside other key figures. This gathering not only celebrates the beloved series but also aims to raise awareness and support for Van Der Beek during this challenging time, making it a significant moment for fans and cast alike.