Sanfic Prizes: ‘Monguen’ and ‘Narciso’ Win at Pared-Back Ceremony Due to Sudden Demise of ‘A Fantastic Woman’ Director Sebastian Lelio

The Santiago Film Festival cancelled the red carpet events at its closing ceremonies after the unexpected death of Chilean filmmaker Sebastián Lelio on 6 November. Festival leaders dedicated the remaining events to him, reflecting his long connection to Sanfic and the shock his death caused.

Documentary “Monguen” won Best Picture in the Chilean competition, while Paraguayan drama “Narciso” took Best Feature in the international competition. Thomas Woodroffe received Best Chilean Director for “Erratics”, Paulina Garcia won Best Actress for “Love is the Monster”, and Ariel Amor’s “Reina de Puerto” won Best Short. Attendance rose by an estimated 10% to 15%, reaching around 35,000 to 40,000.