‘Pigeon Ring’ Captures Family Memories, Secures Top Immersive Prize at Venice

Beijing, September 13 – The 83rd Venice International Film Festival wrapped up on Lido Island with a spotlight on virtual‑reality storytelling. Chinese VR short ‘Pigeon Ring’ emerged as the winner of the Venice Immersive Grand Award, a testament to its emotional resonance and technical craft.

The event also awarded the Golden Lion to Danish director Melle‑El‑Tawki for ‘Woman Anonymous’, and the Grand Jury Award to South Korean Lee Chang‑Dong for ‘Possible Love’. Ilya Kherezhankowski was honoured as Best Director for ‘DAU’, while Mathilde Arselle (Best Actress) and John Malcovich (Best Actor) received their respective accolades.

‘Pigeon Ring’ tells the simple yet profound story of a grandfather and his granddaughter searching for a lost pigeon ring. Through this quest, the film reflects on the value of shared memories, inter‑generational love, and the quiet rhythms of Chinese family life.

The festival opened on September 2 and featured multiple competitive sections, including the Main Competition, Orizzonti, and the newly expanded Venice Immersive program, showcasing the evolving landscape of global cinema.