LOOK!-competition 2025

In the LOOK! competition, you’ll be blown away by the visual storytelling. Powerful stories, carried by stunning imagery. These films are a must-see on the big screen. Moreover, FFO honours the work of the Director of Photography (D.O.P.) – a unique initiative in Europe!

Winner

'Black Dog' by Guan Hu wins the LOOK! competition! The jury, led by Wouter Bouvijn, praised the film for its unique cinematography and captivating storytelling. After winning the Un Certain Regard award in Cannes, the film now also takes home the top prize in Ostend. The story follows a man who, after serving his prison sentence, forms an unexpected friendship with a stray dog.

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In a subtle way, 'Black Dog' explores themes such as loneliness, masculinity, and humility towards people, animals, and the environment. All of this is done without pretension but with room for visual humor and a deep respect for the power of image and sound. The setting and background play just as important a role as what unfolds in the foreground.

Jury

Wouter Bouvijn

Wouter Bouvijn, known for directing the acclaimed series 'The Twelve', 'Red Light', and '1985', will serve as the president of the LOOK! jury this year. These productions, which had their world premieres at Canneseries, have received numerous awards. For instance, 'The Twelve' won seven Ensors, while '1985' excelled last year with ten Ensors at Filmfestival Oostende.

Jean-Yves Roubin

Producer Jean-Yves Roubin has nearly twenty years of experience in the industry and, with Frakas Productions, chooses to work with young directors who take a critical look at our society. Last year, he released 'Maldoror' and is currently working on 'Le Faux Soir', the new film by Michaël R. Roskam, and 'Caoutchouc' by Fabrice du Welz.

Maxime Lahousse

Maxime Lahousse worked as a director of photography on the Flemish TV series 'Chantal' and the Irish-Belgian co-production 'Northern Lights'. In 2024, female cinematographers in Europe are still significantly underrepresented, a situation she hopes to see change.

Daphne Agten

Daphne Agten is a theatre and film actress who became widely known for her leading role as Rosita in 'Holy Rosita' by Wannes Destoop, the opening film of the previous edition. She also works as a director and writer with a strong fascination for the visual.

Michiel Dhont

Michiel Dhont made his debut as a producer in 2022 with 'Close', which won the Grand Prix in Cannes and was nominated for both an Oscar and a Golden Globe. In 2021, he co-founded the independent production company The Reunion with his brother, focusing on strong, accessible, and thought-provoking stories. He is currently working on 'Julian', the directorial debut of Cato Kusters, and the next film by Lukas Dhont.