Men in Towels Won Best Short Film at Namur
The film directed by Kiyan Agadjani secured the top prize at the 41st Namur International Francophone Film Festival.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Foreign
Kiyan Agadjani's latest production, Men in Towels, received the Best Short Film award at the 41st Namur International Francophone Film Festival. The project, supported by Film Fund Luxembourg, follows a man seeking treatment for a stress-related illness at a spa.
Why it matters
This win brings international recognition to the work of Agadjani and the production company Red Lion. The recognition highlights the continued growth of projects supported by Luxembourgish film funding on the global festival circuit.
Men in Towels marks the fourth short film created by Kiyan Agadjani. The film features a cast including Timothy Lone, Oscar Martin, and Alessia Raschella.
The players
Kiyan Agadjani
He is the writer and director of the short film Men in Towels and has now completed four short films in his career.
Red Lion
This is the production company based in Luxembourg that oversaw the creation of the award-winning short film.
Film Fund Luxembourg
This organization provided the necessary financial and creative support for the production of the film.
The details
The narrative centers on a protagonist coping with a stress-related diagnosis who visits a spa for relief. Production on the film included cinematography and editing contributions from Anselm Havu, with an original score composed by Grégory Ney.
Timeline
Kiyan Agadjani released his first short film, George Barton, in 2021.
The film Men in Towels held its world premiere in Beijing in April 2026.
Red Lion announced the award win on October 5, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This win underscores the efficacy of regional support systems like Film Fund Luxembourg in fostering global cinematic talent. Such awards are critical for independent filmmakers seeking to bridge the gap between niche festivals and broader international viewership.
Viewers interested in the film can track its ongoing festival run following its premiere in Beijing and European debut in Sarajevo. Further distribution updates will determine when international audiences can view the film on streaming or digital platforms.
The takeaway
Independent filmmakers often use festival circuit success to gain the momentum needed for wider distribution. Understanding the trajectory of short film production provides insight into the early career steps of emerging directors.
Further reading
Discover more global cinematic achievements in our Foreign section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chronicle.
