The Prix d’Ornano-Valenti: A Franco-American Legacy in Cinema

Every year, a jury of Anglo-American journalists selects a standout first French feature, which is then spotlighted at the Deauville American Film Festival.

For over 30 years, the Prix d’Ornano-Valenti has stood as a powerful symbol of cinematic exchange between France and the United States, honouring new creative voices and fostering transatlantic cultural dialogue through film. Many laureates have gone on to shape contemporary French cinema, bringing bold, personal, and socially resonant stories to audiences around the world.

Originally created in 1991 by the MPA, the award was first known as the Michel d’Ornano Prize, in memory of the former French minister, mayor of Deauville, and co-founder of the Festival. It was designed with a clear ambition: to help a first French feature film reach broader recognition, both nationally and internationally.

In 2015, the award was renamed to also honor Jack Valenti, longtime President and CEO of the MPA and a driving force behind its creation. The new name celebrates two visionaries, the friendship between their families and their shared commitment to Deauville as a platform for cultural exchange.

Since 2009, the prize has been supported by the Franco-American Cultural Fund (FACF) — a unique partnership between the Directors Guild of America (DGA), the Writers Guild of America West (WGAW), Sacem, and the MPA. Together, these organizations promote collaboration between French and American artists, with a shared belief in the unifying power of storytelling.

The Prix d’Ornano-Valenti will be awarded to another visionary filmmaker at this year’s Deauville American Film Festival, happening from 5 to 14 September.

Read up on three fun facts about this emblematic award over on our Linkedin.