
LUKAS DHONT
AND THE JOURNEY OF
A YOUNG FILMMAKER

DIOGO BRÜGGEMANN
CenterFrame Team
The jury of Queer Cannes 2024 presents a diverse and distinguished panel of individuals from the world of film, music, and journalism. Lukas Dhont, the acclaimed Belgian filmmaker, leads the jury as the President, bringing his unique vision and expertise to the selection process. Joining him are the talented Hugo Bardin, a multifaceted French singer and director, alongside the accomplished French filmmaker Sophie Letourneur. Adding an international flair to the jury, the Brazilian filmmaker Juliana Rojas and the British-Palestinian journalist Jad Salfiti contribute their valuable perspectives, promising a captivating and inclusive evaluation of the Queer Cannes 2024 submissions.
This years’ president, Lukas Dhont, like many other filmmakers, has started his career with short films in Belgium, his home country. But his journey from a short film award winner to an acclaimed filmmaker has been nothing short of remarkable. Dhont’s early success with the short film "L'Infini" brought him attention and accolades, setting the stage for his future in the industry. The poignant and visually striking narrative of "L'Infini'' showcased Dhont's innate talent and storytelling prowess, earning him the Best Belgian Student Short Film award at the Film Fest Ghent and laying the foundation for his burgeoning career.
L'INFINI - Directed by Lukas Dhont
Following the success of "L'Infini," Lukas Dhont's transition to the feature film "Girl" marked a significant milestone in his career. The film garnered widespread acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a transgender teenager pursuing a career in ballet. Dhont's directorial finesse and the film's emotionally resonant storytelling earned him critical acclaim and numerous accolades, propelling him into the international spotlight. Even with the critical acclaim, some transgender and queer writers have voiced criticism regarding the portrayal of gender dysphoria and self-harm in the film, which Lukas took into account and acknowledged.
GIRL - Directed by Lukas Dhont
But later, with the successful “Close”, Lukas Dhont has garnered significant acclaim for its poignant exploration of boyhood and the complexities of male friendship. The movie, which won the Grand Prix at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, delves into the delicate bond between 13-year-olds Léo and Rémi, portraying their seemingly unbreakable connection that faces challenges and teasing from their peers, ultimately leading to a tragic turn of events. Dhont crafts a moving narrative that captures the emotional struggles and coming-of-age experiences of young boys as they navigate grief, denial, love, and acceptance.
CLOSE - Directed by Lukas Dhont
His role as the President of Queer Palm in Cannes further solidifies his standing as a visionary filmmaker with a profound devotion for LGBTQ+ narratives, cementing his influence in the industry and his commitment to championing diverse voices in cinema. Young filmmakers should take inspiration from Dhont's example and never give up on their dreams, as the path to success is often paved with setbacks, but the rewards of creating meaningful, impactful films can be immensely fulfilling.

DIOGO BRÜGGEMANN
Film & TV Critic| CenterFrame Team
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