Ukrainian Filmmaker Wins Award at Cannes Film Festival

Zhanna Ozirna Honored with Build Your Dream Prize at Cannes

According to Главком: Ukrainian director Zhanna Ozirna has been awarded the Build Your Dream prize at the Cannes Film Festival for her debut feature 'Honeymoon.' The award, established by Mediawan and BYD, aims to support emerging filmmakers. The film follows a young couple, Taras and Olya, and begins on February 24, 2022-the first day of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The award's shortlist featured 15 top international debut films released in French theaters over the past year. The winner receives funding for their second feature-length project. Ozirna was granted $46,000. In 'Honeymoon,' the protagonists endure five days without electricity, water, or communication in a confined space.

Global Premiere and Critical Acclaim

Regarding the film, the director stated:

“For me, this is a story about the relationships my generation builds. I’ve always been curious about what people in creative professions do during crises-what porcelain shards they cling to. Partly, of course, I made this film for myself-I miss seeing people like me on screen.”

The world premiere of 'Honeymoon' took place in 2024 at the Venice Film Festival, followed by screenings at festivals in 15 countries. The film won the Grand Prix at the Kyiv International Film Festival 'Molodist' and the Golden Atlas Jury Grand Prix at the Arras Film Festival in France. In 2025, it earned another Grand Prix at the Sofia International Film Festival.

The Cannes Film Festival, where Ozirna was recognized, was opened by actress Jane Fonda and runs until May 23. Ozirna is currently developing two new projects: a historical drama titled 'Lower Horizon' and a film called 'Intimacy.' Critic Mohammad Rasoulof described 'Honeymoon' as

“a piercing, sensitive love story set against the backdrop of terrifying explosions.”

Winning the Build Your Dream award at Cannes marks a significant milestone for Zhanna Ozirna and highlights the growing international attention on Ukrainian cinema. The prize not only funds her upcoming projects but also demonstrates the ability of Ukrainian artists to produce meaningful work under challenging circumstances. Notably, 'Honeymoon' continues to earn recognition at global festivals, raising awareness of Ukraine’s cultural realities and the hardships the country faces.