LUX Audience Award 2026: discover the nominated films

The five films contesting the LUX Audience Award 2026 have been announced. Discover the richness of European cinema and help decide the winner.

Published: 07-10-2025 Last updated: 07-10-2025 - 16:06 3 min read

Autumn is a great time for cinema, with its shorter days and moody weather. It is the perfect moment to unveil the finest crop of European films: the five nominees for the LUX Audience Award 2026.

The films, selected by a panel of film professionals from across Europe, were announced during a ceremony in Strasbourg on 7 October. The winner will be announced in April 2026.

Find more information on special events and screenings of the nominated films to be organised by the European Parliament in all EU countries on the dedicated LUX Audience Award website. Rate the films on the LUX Award platform. With ratings by citizens and MEPs weighted equally in the decision on who will win the award, your vote will help determine this year’s distinguished film.

The 2026 nominees

Christy — Brendan Canty (Ireland/ United Kingdom)

Forced to move out of his foster home, seventeen-year-old Christy finds shelter at his half-brother’s place. As the two brothers navigate their shared past and uncertain future, the film delves into themes of youth, education, and child protection.

Deaf — Eva Libertad (Spain)

Angela, a deaf mother-to-be, faces fears and societal barriers as she prepares to raise her child in a world not built for her. The film showcases the everyday challenges of people with disabilities and their families.

It Was Just an Accident — Jafar Panahi (Iran/ France/ Luxembourg)

Driving at night in Iran with his pregnant wife, Eghbal runs over a dog. The accident draws them into story of mistaken identity and revenge, linked to political repression and the need for justice. The film director, Jafar Panahi, is a 2012 Sakharov Prize laureate.

Love Me Tender — Anna Cazenave Cambet (France)

Clemence’s life is upended after telling her ex-husband about her romantic relationships with women. She must now fight for custody of her son and keeping her freedom. The film puts a human face on legal inconsistencies and discrimination that LGBTQ+ people still face.

Sentimental Value — Joachim Trier (Norway/ France/ Denmark/ Germany/ Sweden)

Sisters Nora and Agnes reconnect with their father, Gustav, who hopes to make a comeback into filmmaking. This reignites complex family dynamics and personal aspirations. Winner of the Grand Prix in Cannes, the film celebrates European heritage, culture, and artistic legacy.