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John Malkovich wins Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival

Actor John Malkovich was honored for his role in 'Wild Horse Nine', while the Golden Lion was awarded to May el-Toukhy for 'Woman Unknown'.

12 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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John Malkovich wins Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival — Photo: Elena Ternovaja · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

The 83rd Venice Film Festival concluded with the awarding of the Golden Lion to Danish director May el-Toukhy for her film 'Woman Unknown'. This award is the festival's highest honor.

John Malkovich received the Best Actor award for his role as an aging CIA agent in the film 'Wild Horse Nine', directed by Martin McDonagh. The film explores themes related to the CIA's involvement in Chile prior to the military coup of 1973.

The leading actress from 'Woman Unknown', Mathilde Arcel, was also recognized, winning the Best Actress award. Her film tells the story of Marie, a young woman with a troubled past.

Archive photo: John Malkovich wins Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival — Archive photoPhoto: gemsling · Flickr · BY

The jury additionally awarded a Special Prize to the documentary 'NAZA' by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, which addresses Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. The Grand Jury Prize went to 'Possible Love' by Lee Chang-dong.

Overall, this year's Venice Film Festival honored numerous films and talents, with 'Woman Unknown' standing out as a significant contribution.

John Malkovich's award has already sparked speculation about a potential Oscar nomination. However, the actor was not present to accept the award. It remains to be seen how his career will develop following this latest recognition.

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