In Cannes, France, on May 14 local time, Byd Company Limited (BYD) partnered with the prominent European independent film and television production company Mediawan to establish the "Build Your Dream Award," an initiative designed to encourage emerging film talent. This award is presented annually during the Cannes Film Festival, a global cinematic event, and honors the best feature-length directorial debut released in French theaters over the past year. The jury is chaired by renowned Chinese director Chen Kaige, with members including esteemed international film industry figures such as French actress, director, and screenwriter Mélanie Laurent and French actor Hafsia Herzi.
The establishment of the Build Your Dream Award by BYD represents more than a simple cross-industry venture; it is a gesture of genuine empathy. As stated by BYD Executive Vice President Li Ke, "'Achieving Dreams' is the very belief that BYD has always upheld. We believe that only by providing the possibility for dreams to grow and be realized can they truly blossom. The creation of the Build Your Dream Award aims to nurture the spirit of daring to pursue dreams, to discover and illuminate emerging filmmakers and their creative talents. We are delighted to collaborate with Mediawan in creating this annual award. As one of the world's most creative stages, the Cannes Film Festival is the ideal venue for this award's official debut. We hope that the Build Your Dream Award can become a significant starting point for new directors to step onto the international film stage."
The jury president for the Build Your Dream Award is the acclaimed Chinese director Chen Kaige. Since the 1980s, Chen Kaige has gained international recognition for his outstanding artistic achievements and has become a key figure in promoting the development and evolution of Chinese cinema. In 1993, his film "Farewell My Concubine" won the Palme d'Or, the highest prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Chen Kaige remarked, "Countless young people around the world harbor the dream of becoming film directors. Hosting the Build Your Dream Award during the Cannes Film Festival, an award specifically for emerging filmmakers, is an immensely meaningful and precious event for them."
The inaugural Build Your Dream Award featured 15 international film entries. The winner was announced at the award ceremony held in Cannes. Emerging director Zhanna Ozirna's work "Honeymoon" received the honor for its compelling expression, distinct and unique perspective, and its delicate portrayal of a story interwoven with fear, love, and hope set in a particular era. She expressed, "I am incredibly honored and deeply moved to receive the Build Your Dream Award. The original intention behind creating this film was to tell the story of my generation—young, creative, and free-thinking. This support means a great deal to me. I have always believed that film possesses the power to preserve memory and human experience, and this award gives me the strength to continue exploring humanity through the language of cinema."
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