Eva Libertad's "Deaf" Wins 2026 Lux Audience Award

Spanish filmmaker Eva Libertad's debut feature film "Deaf" (Sorda) has been awarded the 2026 Lux Audience Award, presented in Brussels. This accolade, determined by votes from European citizens and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), recognizes films that foster dialogue on pressing social and political issues. "Deaf" tells the poignant story of Ángela, a deaf woman navigating the challenges of motherhood with her hearing partner, highlighting her fears about raising a child in a world that is not accommodating to her needs.

Variety MagazineDeadline HollywoodHollywood Reporter“Deaf” wins the 2026 LUX Audience Award

Since its premiere at the 2025 Berlin Film Festival, where it won the Panorama Audience Award, "Deaf" has garnered multiple accolades, including three Goya Awards in Spain: Best New Director for Libertad, Best Actress for Miriam Garlo, and Best Supporting Actor for Álvaro Cervantes. The film has been distributed in over 40 countries, with key sales in territories such as Latin America, Italy, Australia, the U.K., Germany, Japan, France, and China.

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The Lux Audience Award, established in 2007, aims to promote European films that address socio-political themes and enhance their distribution across Europe. European Parliament vice-president Sabine Verheyen emphasized the film's impact, stating, "This year’s winner, ‘Deaf,’ does exactly that — with courage, warmth, and rare authenticity." She noted that the film provides an "unforgettable window" into the life of a deaf woman and challenges audiences to listen differently.

“Deaf” wins the 2026 LUX Audience Award

Eva Libertad expressed her hope that the award would bring attention to the deaf community and promote inclusion policies to improve their living conditions. She stated, “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.” Mike Downey, honorary president of the selection panel, praised the film as a "textbook example" of how European cinema can engage audiences and inspire discussions about societal issues.

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While the award has been celebrated, some critics argue that the representation of deaf individuals in cinema remains limited and that more needs to be done to ensure authentic portrayals. The film's success may prompt further discussions on the need for diverse narratives within the film industry.

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Following its Lux Audience Award win, "Deaf" will be showcased at "And the Goya Goes To – New Spanish Films," an event organized by Spain’s Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences, running from April 16-19 in New York.

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• “The Lux Audience Award shines a light on films that open our eyes to experiences beyond our own.” — Sabine Verheyen, European Parliament Vice-President

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• “Director Eva Libertad gives us an unforgettable window into the life of a deaf woman navigating motherhood in a world not built for her.” — Sabine Verheyen, European Parliament Vice-President

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• “as a vehicle for disseminating truths about democracy and the world we live it. Long live European Cinema.” — Mike Downey, Honorary President of the Selection Panel

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The recognition of "Deaf" underscores the importance of inclusive storytelling in cinema and its potential to influence societal perceptions of diversity.

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