The First FIPRESCI Legacy Award Presented at the Lumière Festival

The International Federation of Film Critics proudly announces the launch of its new FIPRESCI Legacy Award, a special honor that turns the critical gaze toward cinema’s rich past to recognize those who have shaped the craft of filmmaking. While the traditional FIPRESCI Prize celebrates contemporary voices and visionary new films, the Legacy Award pays tribute to restored films, institutions, or individuals who have made lasting contributions to film history and film studies.

The inaugural FIPRESCI Legacy Award was presented at the 17th Festival Lumière in Lyon on October 13, 2025. This first honor went to Alain Resnais’ landmark film L’Amour à mort (Love Unto Death, 1984), recognized for its enduring artistic impact and restored legacy. The award was accepted by Sabine Azéma and Pierre Arditi, longtime companions of Resnais and outstanding contributors to his films through their exceptional acting.

It is deeply symbolic that the FIPRESCI Legacy Award is launched during the 100th anniversary celebration of FIPRESCI itself, marking a century of dedication to film criticism and the celebration of cinema—both its future and its storied past.

FIPRESCI expresses immense gratitude to the Artistic Director Thierry Frémaux, whose visionary leadership and unwavering support have made the Lumière Festival the ideal host for this new award, in 2025 and for years to come.

With this new initiative, FIPRESCI reinforces its commitment to honoring film’s historical giants as carefully and passionately as it celebrates today’s groundbreaking talents.

©FIPRESCI 2025