"We were all very engaged by the 12 films selected for Competition and really admired many of them,... More

"We were all very engaged by the 12 films selected for Competition and really admired many of them, there were extraordinary stories and impressive images. But there was one film that we were unanimous in wanting to award Best Film, Leviathan directed by Andrey Zvyagintsev. Its grandeur and themes moved all of us in the same way."

Jury statement: "An epic story that delves deep into the Russian soul, Andrey Zviagintsev's ... More

Jury statement: "An epic story that delves deep into the Russian soul, Andrey Zviagintsev's extraordinary film 'Leviathan' is the CineMasters Jury award for best film. As it charts one ordinary man's fight against authorities and the church, who are conspiring against him to take away his ramshackle home overlooking the Barents Sea, it acts as a mirror for issues facing not only ordinary Russians but for many others around the world. Featuring mesmerisingly beautiful cinematography by Mikhail Kirchman, a series of impressive and haunting lead performances and a striking score by Philip Glass, the film is packed full of unforgettable images, subtle humour and dark drama, resulting in a powerful, moving and memorable piece of cinema."

"At once timely and timeless, this film manages to comment on contemporary issues in a way that is ... More

"At once timely and timeless, this film manages to comment on contemporary issues in a way that is both artistically stunning and deeply humane."