Sergei Loznitsa's 'Imperium' Takes Top Prize at London Film Festival

Ukrainian filmmaker Sergei Loznitsa's latest feature Imperium has won the Best Film Award in the Official Competition at the 2026 London Film Festival. The jury, led by documentary filmmaker Sam Pollard, announced the winners on the festival's final day, citing the film's compelling vision and execution.

Thai director Sompot Chidgasornpongse's 9 Temples To Heaven was also among the big winners, though the specific award category was not detailed in the initial announcement. The dual recognition highlights the festival's commitment to showcasing diverse international voices and cinematic approaches.

The London Film Festival's Official Competition continues to serve as a significant platform for auteur-driven cinema from around the world. This year's selections reinforce the event's reputation for identifying bold, distinctive filmmaking that challenges audiences and advances the art form.

This brief draws on reporting from Deadline.