‘The Shape of Water’ Wins the Golden Lion in Venice, a First for Guillermo del Toro

A filmography filled with mermaids and other fantastical creatures can now add a new animal to its menagerie, as Guillermo del Toro has won the Golden Lion for “The Shape of Water.” That the “Pan’s Labyrinth” director would take the top prize at Venice is no big surprise, as his new romance starring Sally Hawkins has earned near-unanimous praise since premiering on the Lido, but it’s quite the honor all the same.

Annette Bening led this year’s competition jury, which also included Edgar Wright, Rebecca Hall, Ildiko Enyedi, Michel Franco, Anna Mouglalis, David Stratton, Jasmine Trinca, and Yonfan. ”If you remain pure and stay with your faith,” said del Toro as he accepted his prize, “eventually things will go right.” Here’s the full list of winners:

Golden Lion: “The Shape of Water,” Guillermo del Toro

Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize: “Foxtrot,” Samuel Maoz

Silver Lion Best Director: “Custody,” Xavier Legrand

Volpi Cup for Best Actress: Charlotte Rampling, “Hannah”

Volpi Cup for Best Actor: Kamel El Basha, “The Insult,”

Best Screenplay Award: Martin McDonagh, “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”

Special Jury Prize: “Sweet Country,” Warwick Thornton

Marcello Mastroianni Award: Charlie Plummer, “Lean on Pete”