The European Film Academy Critics' Award 2008 - Prix Fipresci has been awarded to Abdellatif Kechiche for La Graine Et Le Mulet (The Secret of the Grain)

The announcement was made by the European Film Academy, EFA Productions, and the International Federation of Film Critics, FIPRESCI.

FIPRESCI's director of the department for African affairs, Hassouna Mansouri, explained the decision to recognise Kechiche: 'Giving this year's prize to Abdellatif Kechiche, the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) recognises an author in the purest and simplest meaning of the word.

The award not only pays tribute to all those filmmakers who are often marginalised because of their origins, but above all recognises the talent of those who are committed to a different and independent cinema; those who stand against the war machines and their grip on the industry of the image.' Mansouri said.

La Graine Et Le Mulet was also awarded the Fipresci and the Special Jury Prizes at the Venice Film festival in 2007.

In France it won the Louis Delluc prize and scooped four Cesars including best film, director, original screenplay and most promising newcomer for actress Hafsia Herzi.

The award will be presented during the 21st European Film Awards Ceremony on 6 December in Copenhagen.

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