Francisco Villarroel

Review from the Jury of the New York Film Awards: Two Autumns in Paris won Best Narrative Feature. Juror Nick Connor, who won the same category in 2019 and joined this year's judging panel, explained his decision: "Two Autumns in Paris is incredibly heartbreaking, nuanced, and deeply touching. A historic examination of class, refugees, and political rebellion that subtly speaks in parallel to the world today. Its turbulent romance set with the background of the 'City of Love' is relatable and raw. As an audience, we fall in love with María Teresa and Antonio just as the characters do with one another, which is down to two fantastic central performances from Maria Antonieta Hidalgo and Slavko Sorman. A scene at the halfway mark is so unforgettable in its brutality that it truly imprints itself in your memory for days. Gibelys Coronado's vision is beautifully classical and traditional yet a story of this kind has never been shown on our screens before. Plaudits to Coronado and Francisco Villarroel for bringing this narrative to life, especially in a time when it's themes and ideas are so important. No matter who you are, this story will likely enlighten you, warm you, and then may even break you."