Virginie Efira to Receive Prestigious Award at Locarno Film Festival

Belgian-French actress Virginie Efira will be honored with the Leopard Club Award at next year’s Locarno Film Festival, a recognition of her significant impact on European cinema and her rising prominence on the international stage.

The award ceremony will take place on August 7 in Locarno’s iconic Piazza Grande during the 79th edition of the festival. Efira will be celebrated for a career that began in television before transitioning to acclaimed dramatic roles in film.

Over the past decade, Efira has become one of Europe’s most in-demand actresses. Her performances in films including Benedetta, Revoir Paris, Sibyl, and In Bed with Victoria have earned her widespread critical praise. The Belgian-French star has demonstrated remarkable versatility, moving effortlessly between comedy, romance, drama, and psychological thrillers.

Festival organizers highlighted Efira’s screen presence and willingness to take on challenging roles, saying her work continues to captivate both audiences and critics. The award solidifies her position as one of the defining actresses of her generation.

The 2026 Locarno Film Festival, which will run in August in Switzerland, is expected to draw filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from around the world. Efira’s award presentation is shaping up to be one of the festival’s marquee moments.

By recognizing Efira with the Leopard Club Award, Locarno continues its tradition of honoring artists whose work has fundamentally shaped global cinema while celebrating performers pushing filmmaking forward.