‘What matters now is freedom’: Banned filmmaker Panahi takes top Cannes prize with jail-inspired drama on revenge and resistance

AI Summary

Iranian dissident director Jafar Panahi won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his film "It Was Just an Accident," which explores the moral dilemma of revenge. Banned from filmmaking and imprisoned twice in Iran, Panahi used his acceptance speech to call for unity and freedom in his country. He plans to return to Tehran despite the risks. Other awards included Best Actor for Wagner Moura and Best Director for Kleber Mendonca Filho, both for the Brazilian film "The Secret Agent." French newcomer Nadia Melliti won Best Actress.