News
04.03.25

Revealed at Cannes, winners at the César

They made their first steps on the Croisette at the Festival de Cannes last year, and on Friday, February 28, 2025, their talent was recognized at the 50th César Ceremony. Discover the career beginnings of these young artists.

Best First Film

Louise Courvoisier

After her visit in 2019 to present her student short film Mano A Mano at La Cinef, Louise Courvoisier returns to the Festival de Cannes with her debut feature film Holy Cow. A film that is particularly close to her heart, as it honestly and humorously portrays agricultural work in her native region of Jura.

This film has earned her, among other accolades, the 2024 Prix de la Jeunesse at Un Certain Regard, the 2025 César for Best First Film, and attracted nearly one million viewers in French theaters!

Best Female Newcomer

Maïwène Barthélémy

Holy Cow also helped reveal another raw talent: Maïwène Barthélémy. An apprentice on a dairy farm, she landed her first role in Louise Courvoisier’s film, which draws inspiration from the daily life of farmers. Her authenticity and talent were recognized with the César for Best Female Newcomer.

Best Male Newcomer

Abou Sangare

Abou Sangaré was also brought into the spotlight with a role deeply rooted in reality. Originally from Guinea, his life changed thanks to L’Histoire de Souleymane by Boris Lojkine, a film about the struggles of undocumented workers, inspired by the battles he personally faced when arriving in France a few years ago. His poignant performance earned him the Best Actor Award at Un Certain Regard in Cannes 2024, as well as the 2025 César for Best Male Newcomer.

Sameer Al-Doumy / AFP © Sameer Al-Doumy / AFP

Best Fictional Short Film

Nebojša Slijepčević

Croatian director Nebojša Slijepčević is on a winning streak! After taking home the Palme d’Or for Best Short Film for The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent at Cannes last year, as well as the Best Short Film Award at the European Film Awards, he has now won the César for Best Fictional Short Film.

Congratulations to all these Cinéma de Demain artists, and the Festival de Cannes wishes them a long and successful career!

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