Cannes, France – May 2025 — The 78th Cannes Film Festival has announced From Dust by Michel van der Aa as the winner of the Best Immersive Work Award, recognizing the project’s pioneering fusion of storytelling, artistic space, and audience interaction.
Presented during the festival’s second edition of the Immersive Competition, the award was decided by a prestigious jury chaired by French filmmaker Luc Jacquet. The panel also included iconic multidisciplinary artist Laurie Anderson, French writer Tania de Montaigne, British director Martha Fiennes, and Japanese game designer Tetsuya Mizuguchi.
Hosted at the legendary Carlton Hotel — transformed into a futuristic hub of immersive storytelling — this year’s competition welcomed over 5,000 bookings, reflecting a surging interest in experiential art.
Featuring 16 works from nine countries, including nine in competition, two non-competitive entries, and five in a special “Focus on Luxembourg,” the selection highlighted the diversity and innovation emerging in this evolving medium.
“We are witnessing the emergence of a new narrative form,” said Luc Jacquet. “This field is still taking shape, but it is full of promise.”
Elie Levasseur, Head of Immersive, added, “These works reimagine how narrative and space can connect with audiences, opening new paths for artistic engagement.”
Van der Aa, elated by the recognition, said, “It’s a great honor for me to be nominated for this prestigious Festival — and an even greater honor to win. It’s truly out of this world!”
The Immersive Competition continues to affirm Cannes’ role at the forefront of artistic innovation, honoring creators who redefine the future of storytelling and transform the way we experience art.