The film, co-produced by Belgium, France and Netherlands, tells the story of an intense friendship between two thirteen-year old boys Leo and Remi. When their friendship is suddenly disrupted, Leo approaches Sophie, Remi’s mother, struggling to understand what has happened. “Close” is a film about friendship and responsibility.

The other four films shortlisted for the award were: “Alcarràs” by Spanish director Carla Simón, “Burning Days” by Turkish director Emin Alper, “Will-o’-the-Wisp” by Portugese director João Pedro Rodrigues and “Triangle of Sadness” by Swedish director Ruben Östlund.

The winning film was chosen by combining a public vote and a vote by MEPs, with each weighed at 50%. The awards platform received around 45,000 ratings (reviews on a scale going from one to five stars) from European viewers and 360 from MEPs.

Press conference and related events

You can watch the press point with the winner, EP Vice-President Evelyn Regner (S&D, AT)…