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    DEAF wins 2026 LUX Audience Award

    The film DEAF (SORDA), directed by Spanish director Eva Libertad, was declared the winner of the 2026 LUX Audience Award at a ceremony today in the European Parliament hemicycle in Brussels. Chosen jointly by EU citizens and MEPs. 

    The Spanish drama DEAF tells the story of Ángela, a deaf woman expecting a child with her hearing partner. Ángela’s fears about motherhood and her ability to communicate and interact with her daughter mount as she confronts the reality of raising a baby in a world not built for her.

    “The LUX Audience Award shines a light on films that open our eyes to experiences beyond our own. This year’s winner, Deaf, does exactly that – with courage, warmth, and rare authenticity. Director Eva Libertad gives us an unforgettable window into the life of a deaf woman navigating motherhood in a world not built for her. Led by a stunning performance from deaf actress Miriam Garlo, the film challenges us to listen differently and to build a Europe where no one is left unheard,” said European Parliament vice-president Sabine Verheyen.

    “I hope that this award will help to focus on the deaf community, and the diversity of people in Europe, and to promote inclusion policies that improve their living conditions. I am also confident that it will contribute to society changing its view of diversity, that it will no longer be seen as a problem and that it will be perceived as human wealth”, said the film’s director Eva Libertad.

    The four other films shortlisted for the award were: CHRISTY by Irish director Brendan Canty, IT WAS JUST AN ACCIDENT by Iranian director Jafar Panahi, LOVE ME TENDER by French director Anna Cazenave Cambet and SENTIMENTAL VALUE by Norwegian director Joachim Trier. More about the LUX Audience Award nominees.

    The winning film was chosen by combining a public vote and a vote by MEPs, each weighted at 50%.

    Please find photos from the ceremony in Brussels via link here.