The Nepali film "Elephants in the Fog" became the first film from Nepal to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival and win the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize [1, 2].
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Nepal's cinematic industry, bringing international recognition to the country's cultural narratives on one of the world's most prestigious stages.
Directed by Abinash Bikram Shah, the film premiered during the 2026 Cannes Film Festival in May [1, 2]. The production features actors Jasmine Bishwokarma, Aliz Ghimire, and Pushpa Thing Lama [1].
The plot centers on a leader within the Kinnar community who must confront the threat of wild elephant attacks [1, 4]. This narrative focus on marginalized communities and local environmental struggles contributed to the film's selection and subsequent victory [1, 4].
The Un Certain Regard category typically highlights films with non-traditional storytelling or those that bring unique cultural perspectives to the screen [2]. By securing the Jury Prize, "Elephants in the Fog" has established a precedent for future Nepali filmmakers seeking global distribution and critical acclaim [3].
Industry reports said the film has already begun attracting interest for distribution deals following its success in France [3]. The victory is being celebrated as a historic first for the nation's arts sector [1].
“The first Nepali film ever to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival”
The victory of "Elephants in the Fog" signals a shift in the global visibility of South Asian cinema beyond the dominant Bollywood industry. By winning a prize in the Un Certain Regard section, Nepal has demonstrated that its localized, culturally specific stories possess the universal appeal necessary to compete at the highest level of international film competition.
