The Lost Boys of Mercury review – heartbreaking film on the enduring wounds of church-school abuse

Laurent Mauvignier has been awarded the prestigious Goncourt prize for his novel 'La Maison Vide' ('The Empty House'), a work that echoes the great realist authors of the 19th century. This recognition not only highlights Mauvignier's talent but also brings attention to contemporary French literature, celebrating its rich narrative tradition and encouraging readers to explore deeper themes of family and existence.

French novelist Laurent Mauvignier has been awarded the prestigious Goncourt Prize for his sweeping family saga, 'La Maison Vide.' This 750-page novel draws inspiration from his own family's stories and spans over a century, showcasing the depth of his storytelling.

France's National Film Board is making significant strides in Asia, recognizing the region's growing influence in the global entertainment scene. At the Taiwan Creative Content Fest, CNC president Gaetan Bruel highlighted the importance of this expansion, showcasing France's commitment with a large delegation of professionals. This move not only strengthens cultural ties but also opens up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in creative content, which is crucial in today's rapidly evolving market.

Émilien, a 22-year-old history student, has become Europe's greatest gameshow winner after spending nearly two years on a popular French quiz show, amassing a fortune in the process. He shares insights on the value of curiosity, living frugally, and the importance of getting 10-11 hours of sleep each night.

Netflix is celebrating nearly a decade in Poland by launching 'Heweliusz', its most expensive Polish series to date. This ambitious project highlights the streaming giant's commitment to the Central and Eastern Europe region, showcasing local talent and storytelling. With a population of nearly 40 million, Poland serves as a strategic hub for Netflix, and this investment reflects the confidence that executives like Ted Sarandos have in the potential of Polish productions. It's an exciting time for both Netflix and Polish creators, as this series could pave the way for more high-quality content from the region.

Danny Tipping, a seasoned figure in the media industry, has launched Longwave Studios, marking an exciting new chapter in unscripted production. The studio's debut project is a gripping two-part documentary titled 'The Bodies on the Bridge,' which delves into the shocking double murder that occurred in West London in 2024. This launch is significant not only for Tipping but also for the UK media landscape, as it promises to bring compelling storytelling to audiences while exploring real-life crime narratives.

Cristian Mungiu, the acclaimed Romanian director and Cannes Palme d'Or winner, has been appointed as the patron for the 2025 Marrakech International Film Festival's Atlas Workshops. This prestigious role highlights Mungiu's influence in contemporary European cinema and sets the stage for showcasing new films by talented directors like Scandar Copti, Asmae El Moudir, Mounia Akl, and Amjad Al Rasheed. His involvement not only elevates the festival's profile but also supports emerging filmmakers, making it a significant event for the film community.

The Marrakech Film Festival has announced the selection of 28 projects and films for the 8th edition of the Atlas Workshops, with renowned Romanian director Cristian Mungiu serving as this year's patron. Running from November 30 to December 4, this event highlights emerging talent and innovative storytelling in cinema, making it a significant platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and gain recognition in the industry.

The teaser for 'A Teacher's Gift,' a British South Asian film supported by India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), has just been released. This film, produced by Eric Ollerenshaw and directed by Artur Ribeiro, features a talented cast including Rajdeep Choudhury and Anjali Patil. It tells the story of Rohan, exploring themes that resonate with audiences. The backing of NFDC highlights the growing collaboration between Indian and British cinema, making this film significant in promoting cultural exchange and diversity in storytelling.

Mediawan Kids & Family is making exciting strides in the microdrama sector, with plans to introduce its first vertical animation short-form content next year. President Julien Borde shared these insights at the Taiwan Creative Content Festival, highlighting the animation industry's readiness for this emerging trend. This move not only showcases Mediawan's innovative approach but also reflects a growing interest in short-form content, which could reshape how stories are told and consumed in the digital age.