Anna Daniels
A Win Steeped in Controversy: “Un Simple Accident” Grabs the Palme d’Or at Cannes—Critics React Differently
It was a climactic moment that evoked Hollywood fantasies—sunglasses on, emotions running high, and thunderous applause. Jafar Panahi, the Iranian filmmaker previously banned, accepted the Palme d’Or for Un Simple Accident at the Grand Lumière Theater. The film—a gripping narrative about vengeance and kidnapping involving former detainees—was secretly filmed after Panahi escaped oppression and incarceration in Iran. The audience’s cheers were palpable, and social media buzzed with excitement. Yet, almost immediately, a wave of conflicting opinions swept through critic circles and social networks—was Un Simple Accident rewarded for its creative merit or its poignant story?
A Celebration of Political Triumph
Let’s be clear: this was a political statement, and that sentiment was palpable at Cannes. Juliette Binoche, leading this year’s jury, openly acknowledged her vote as a tribute to Panahi’s courage, his challenge against oppression, and his advocacy for free speech. This narrative is compelling—almost overwhelmingly so. While Un Simple Accident tells a powerful story reflecting Panahi’s own struggles, critics suggest it’s not his finest work. Not even close, according to many.
What about The White Balloon? A remarkable exploration of childhood intricacies. This Is Not a Film? A raw, groundbreaking piece. Yet Un Simple Accident? Described as “sincere, brave, but uneven in narrative structure” by one insider while waiting for coffee. Others remarked it was “the right film from the right director—but poorly timed.”
Political Undertones at Cannes—Again
This isn’t Cannes’ first instance of prioritizing message over merit. In 2021, Spike Lee’s jury awarded Titane, an unconventional horror film, triggering both acclaim and confusion. In 2013, Blue is the Warmest Color won amidst controversies surrounding its production and explicit scenes—yet it captured hearts. And we can’t forget Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 taking home the Palme in 2004. The blending of artistry and activism has always been woven into Cannes’ fabric.
However, 2025 feels distinct due to the backdrop of geopolitical strife and a looming 100% U.S. tariff on foreign films—adding an ideological charge to the festival’s atmosphere. By the time Panahi accepted his award, his victory felt preordained.
What About Trier’s “Sentimental Value”?
Let’s discuss the disappointment: Sentimental Value, a stunning family story by Joachim Trier, captured the hearts of many critics. A film delving into memory, disconnection, and the peculiar way time mends wounds, featuring standout performances from Stellan Skarsgård and Renate Reinsve. The visual storytelling? It brought nostalgia to life. Trier’s direction? Poised, deliberate, and exceptional.
Many considered this year’s Palme to be his to win. Yet, things unraveled. Though receiving the Grand Prix (the second-place honor) is commendable, it’s akin to giving Van Gogh a “Participation” award. Trier remained gracious, applauding, but the implication was unmistakable: this wasn’t the win people anticipated.
Divided Opinions: Jury and Public
Cannes juries embody an intriguing chaos. This year featured the talents of Indian innovator Payal Kapadia and American actor Jeremy Strong, alongside numerous international filmmakers. This diversity breeds contention. Rumor has it Trier was leading the votes until Binoche shifted support towards Panahi. A bold act of solidarity, indeed. But is it justified?
This leads to a timeless inquiry: Should accolades celebrate the artistry or the artist’s narrative? This year, Cannes opted for a blend of both.
Brilliance or Fortuitous Timing?
Panahi’s film may not revolutionize cinema, yet it carries significant historical weight. It’s a form of documentary-style fiction, where the trauma is genuine even if the plot is fictional. Such storytelling resonates deeply in a landscape inundated with superficial empathy and algorithm-driven narratives. Un Simple Accident didn’t merely win—it demonstrated that film can maintain its edge.
However, the film’s most notable achievement may be its embodiment of cineman as resistance. A creation forged in exile, communicated across borders, and enjoyed by an audience beneath luxurious chandeliers. It stands as both a protest and an artistic performance.
Now, Choose Your Stance
Here we are: Un Simple Accident is crowned the Palme d’Or winner for 2025. Do you applaud it? Admire the courage it represents. Do you recoil? Grieve the chance to celebrate quieter brilliance.
Would you endorse it—or cast aside your vote? No judgment on your choice. (…Well, maybe just a little judgment.)
Here are the complete winners from the 2025 Cannes Film Festival:
MAIN COMPETITION (AWARDS & HONORS)
Palme d’Or (Golden Palm):
Un Simple Accident (It Was Just an Accident) – Directed by Jafar Panahi (Iran)
Grand Prix (Second Place):
Sentimental Value – Directed by Joachim Trier (Norway)
Jury Prize (Tie):
Sirât – Directed by Oliver Laxe (France/Spain)
Sound of Falling – Directed by Mascha Schilinski (Germany)
Best Director:
Kleber Mendonça Filho – The Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto) (Brazil)
Best Screenplay:
Jean-Pierre & Luc Dardenne – Young Mothers (Jeunes Mères) (Belgium)
Best Actress:
Nadia Melliti – The Little Sister (Directed by Hafsia Herzi, France)
Best Actor:
Wagner Moura – The Secret Agent (Brazil)
Special Award:
Bi Gan – Resurrection (China)
UN CERTAIN REGARD
Un Certain Regard Prize:
The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo – Directed by Diego Céspedes
Jury Prize:
A Poet (Un Poeta) – Directed by Simón Mesa Soto
Best Director:
Arab & Tarzan Nasser – Once Upon a Time in Gaza
Best Actress:
Cléo Diára – I Only Rest in the Storm (O Riso e a Faca)
Best Actor:
Frank Dillane – Urchin
Best Screenplay:
Pillion – Directed by Harry Lighton
ADDITIONAL AWARDS
Camera d’Or (Best First Film):
The President’s Cake – Directed by Hasan Hadi (Iraq)
Special Mention (Camera d’Or):
My Father’s Shadow – Directed by Akinola Davies Jr. (Nigeria)
