Cannes, France - Kodi, a griffon cross dog from Loiret, captured hearts and eyes at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival by winning the Palm Dog, an honorary distinction rewarding the best canine performance on the big screen. The faithful four-legged companion was the protagonist of French-Swiss director Lætitia Dosch's inaugural film, entitled The Trial of the Dog .
Kodi's triumph
In an event where competition is fierce, Kodi stood out for his charisma and acting, playing the character Cosmos in the film The Trial of the Dog . The story highlights an improbable but captivating story, where a lawyer, played by Dosch herself, fights to defend a dog threatened with euthanasia after biting a young woman. Kodi was able to captivate the attention of spectators with his touching and authentic performance, thus earning him deserved recognition.
The Palm Dog: an emblematic canine prize
Since its creation in 2001, the Palm Dog has become a popular tradition of the Cannes Film Festival. It not only celebrates canine talent on screen, but has also become a key topic of conversation among festival-goers. Renowned film dogs, such as Messi from Anatomy of a Fall , Brandy from Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood and Uggie from The Artist , have previously been honored with this prestigious award.
A new canine star emerges
Kodi joins the ranks of the illustrious winners of the Palm Dog, succeeding the emblematic border collie Messi. Her role in The Trial of the Dog won over the jury and the public, offering a remarkable performance in this first feature film by Laetitia Dosch. Alongside other remarkable dogs like Xin, the Jack Russell greyhound cross from Black Dog , winner of the 2024 Palm Dog Grand Jury Prize, Kodi leaves an indelible mark in the history of canine cinema.
The Trial of the Dog: a work apart
Presented in the Un Certain Regard section, The Trial of the Dog represents the first feature film directed by Laetitia Dosch. This Franco-Swiss actress offers the public an unclassifiable work, skillfully mixing absurd fantasy, humorous offbeat and profound reflections on society. With a cast including François Damiens and Jean-Pascal Zadi, the film promises a unique cinematic experience, leaving a lasting imprint in the memories of spectators.
A win for Kodi, a win for cinema
Kodi's victory at the Palm Dog is a testament not only to his natural talent, but also to the growing importance of animals in the film industry. By brilliantly portraying the role of Cosmos, Kodi proved that canine performances can be just as memorable and moving as those of their human counterparts. His Palm Dog is much more than just an award: it is a tribute to the beauty and diversity of the world of cinema.