Alexander Payne receives an honorary award at the Locarno Film Festival 2025!

Alexander Payne receives an honorary award at the Locarno Film Festival 2025!

Locarno, Schweiz - The renowned screenwriter and director Alexander Payne is honored for his outstanding contributions to the American cinema. On the 78th edition of the Locarno Film Festival , which takes place from August 16, 2025 D’Unore, an honorary award that has been awarded since 2017. He thus shows his appreciation for the profound topics and humorous narrative style of his films that create a target audience for medium -budgeted narrative cinema.

Alexander Payne will present his films "The Descendants" (2011) and "Nebraska" (2013) on August 15, accompanied by a public conversation with the festival audience. This idea promises an exciting discussion about his film art. Payne is part of an exquisite ensemble of award winners, which also includes Lucy Liu, Emma Thompson and Jackie Chan. Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director of the festival, paid tribute to Paynes Knowledge and his unique filmography.

career and awards

Payne's impressive career comprises a total of eight long films that are known for their elegant structure and fine humor. His works have won numerous awards in the past, including three Oscars, eight Golden Globes and three BAFTAS. From his debut film "Citizen Ruth" (1996), which had its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, to his current works, Payne has demonstrated his talent to tell stories that both entertain and stimulate thought.

The tender of the Pardo d’Unore 2025 underlines the importance of Payne's work for the development of modern cinema. Filmmakers such as Jean-Luc Godard, Agnès Varda and Jane Campion are already among the former award winners of this honorary award.

For film fans, the presentation of "The Descendants" and "Nebraska" is an opportunity to get a deep insight into Payne's work. During the festival, the audience will also have the opportunity to take part in a direct dialogue with one of the most important American filmmakers of his Generation.

Payne, who was born in Nebraska in 1961 and completed film studies on the UCLA, has cultivated his own style, which is considered both innovative and as deeply human. His film "Nebraska", for example, addresses the challenges of generations and the American dream in a way that also inspired international filmmakers.

With this honor and presentation of his works, not only Payne's artistic legacy is celebrated, but also his role as pioneer for the American cinema in the global film world.