Jennifer Lawrence received the Premio Donostia 2025 Award at the San Sebastian International Film Festival, becoming the youngest actor to win the honor. At 35, the Oscar winner reflected on her career and addressed cultural and political issues during the ceremony.
“It’s a huge honour,” she said at a press conference, before warning: “Our freedom of speech is under attack in the United States, including in the world of film, where we realise that we are all connected and need empathy and freedom.”
Lawrence presented her new film Kill Me Love, in which she also worked as producer, and encouraged young filmmakers to keep fighting for their dreams. She highlighted the growing role of women in Hollywood, praising creators such as Greta Gerwig for expanding perspectives through more diverse storytelling.
Her recognition came during a politically charged edition of the festival, where protests in support of Palestine dominated the atmosphere. From the opening day, thousands rallied outside the venue chanting “Free Palestine,” while filmmakers and actors used the stage to denounce the war in Gaza.
Juliette Binoche, Jafar Panahi, and Spanish directors including José María Goenaga and Alberto Rodríguez joined calls to end the violence. Actor Eduard Fernández wore a keffiyah on stage and read the names of Palestinian children killed in Gaza.
Amid political messages, Lawrence’s award highlighted both her impact on cinema and the festival’s role as a platform for urgent global causes.
