Still from It Was Just An Accident / Un Simple Accident;
Credit: Bidibul Productions
On Saturday 24 May 2025, "It Was Only An Accident / Un Simple Accident" was awarded the Palme d'Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, marking the first time that a Luxembourgish co-production has won this coveted prize.
Directed by Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi, "It Was Only An Accident / Un Simple Accident" was co-produced by Christel Henon for Bidibul Productions (Luxembourg), alongside Les Films Pelléas, Pio & Co (France) and Jafar Panahi Productions (Iran). According to Film Fund Luxembourg, the feature film demonstrates the expertise, artistic excellence and commitment of Luxembourg producers to major international projects.
Made in a challenging production environment, the film is a continuation of Panahi's powerful and committed work. With "It Was Only An Accident / Un Simple Accident", he delivers a story that is both poignant and incisive, blending political satire and intimate drama, driven by masterful direction and great human sensitivity.
In addition to this major distinction, the film also received the Citizenship Award, presented for the seventh time this year. This independent prize recognises a work embodying the values of solidarity, social justice, respect for fundamental rights and freedom of expression.
"This double recognition at Cannes is a source of immense pride for Luxembourg. It reflects the strength of our audiovisual sector," said Guy Daleiden, Director of the Luxembourg Film Fund.
With "It Was Only An Accident / Un Simple Accident", 49 films co-produced with Luxembourg have now been selected at Cannes since 1989, including three this year. Luxembourg cinema now has fifteen awards on the Croisette — a remarkable achievement for a country of this size, confirming its key role in the European co-production landscape.
