The film, which is Slovakia's Oscar submission, is about a father who forgets his two-year-old daughter in a hot car and the consequences that follow.
"This unflinching story – inspired by true events – invites us into the collapse of a family, and offers a devastating study in the complexities of guilt and forgiveness," the jury writes in its motivation.
"The lead actor delivers an unforgettable realism, and a raw vulnerability. With long, intense takes and a camera that sometimes feels like a silent witness, the film forces us to ask whether forgiveness of sins – legal or moral – is ever possible," the jury further writes.
“Father” also wins the award for best screenplay. The award for best direction goes to Mascha Schillinski for “Sound of Falling” and Alexander Skarsgård’s co-star in “Pillion,” Harry Melling, receives the award for best male actor.
Corrected: In a previous text, there was incorrect information about which country submitted the film "Father" as a contribution to the Oscars.
Winner Stockholm Film Festival 2025
Best film: “Father”
Best Director: Mascha Schillinski for “Sound of Falling”
Best debut: Hasan Hadi for "The Dictator's Cake"
Best Screenplay: Dusan Budzak and Tereza Nvotova for “Father”
Best Actress: Shih Yuan Ma in “Left-handed girl”
Best Actor: Harry Melling in "Pillion"
Best Photo: Evgenia Alexandrova for "The Secret Agent"
