Hanna Bergholm's film Nightborn clinched the Cheval Noir award for best film at the 2026 Fantasia International Film Festival, with Seidi Haarla also winning best actress for her role in the film.
Key Awards and Winners
- Best Director: Kasper Kalle for No Rest for the Wicked, which also earned Pilou Asbæk the best actor award.
- Best Screenplay: Awarded to Edwin, Eka Kurniawan, and Daishi Matsunaga for Sleep No More.
- Best Cinematography: Fabrizio La Palombara for Ferine, directed by Andrea Corsini.
- Best Score: Pino Donaggio for Ferine.
- Best Editing: Satoshi Ueno for Beasts Clutching at Straws.
Notable Performances
Seidi Haarla's outstanding performance in Nightborn was highlighted for its emotional depth and physicality. Pilou Asbæk's portrayal in No Rest for the Wicked was praised for its transformative impact. Both actors received the Outstanding Performance Award.
Special Mentions and New Talent
Hot Spot, directed by Agnieszka Smoczyńska, received a special mention for its ensemble cast. Sleep No More was recognized for its exceptional practical effects. The New Flesh Award for Best First Feature went to Mum, I’m Alien Pregnant by THUNDERLIPS.
Animation and Canadian Filmmaking
The Satoshi Kon Award for Best Animated Feature was given to Blaise, directed by Jean-Paul Guigue and Dimitri Planchon. The Northern Excellence Award for Canadian Filmmaking went to Black Zombie, directed by Maya Annik Bedward.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/festivals/fantasia-festival-awards-nightborn-wins-top-honor-1236821190/
