German writer-director Maren Ade just made history. Her newest film, Cannes hit “Toni Erdmann,” has been awarded the 2016 International Federation of Film Critics (Fipresci) Grand Prix for best film of the year. This marks the first time that this prestigious honor has been given to a film helmed by a woman, Variety reports.
Ade will receive the Fipresci Grand Prix at San Sebastian Film Festival’s opening night gala ceremony, set to take place September 16. The festival runs from September 16–24.
The winning film was was decided by 475 Fipresci members, who previously recognized “Toni Erdmann” at Cannes, where the dark comedy made its World Premiere. It was named the best film in competition by Fipresci.
The story follows Ines Conradi (Sandra Huller), a businesswoman whose life is upended when her estranged father (Peter Simonischek) pays her an unexpected visit in Bucharest.
“I feel extremely honored to be chosen by the people who have seen the most films over the year,” Ade commented. She added, “And thank you so much for giving ‘Toni’ such a great start in Cannes.”
It seems likely that Germany will select the critically acclaimed film as their foreign-language Oscar contender. It is one of eight films shortlisted for the honor.
“There are not enough women directing films,” Ade has said. “In Germany, we have this discussion now about a quota system … and I think we should try it, because concerning the public money, it should be equal.”
Sony Pictures Classics snagged the U.S. distribution rights to “Toni Erdmann.” The film will be released in theaters December 25, but you can catch it at TIFF in September and NYFF in October.
