VRT: Lukas Dhont’s Coward is Belgium’s submission for 2027 Oscars

Lukas Dhont Premieres Third Feature Film Coward in Cinemas

Lukas Dhont’s third feature film, Coward, opens in cinemas today, starring Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne as two young men navigating the front lines of World War I, according to reporting by VRT. The drama follows Pierre, a soldier who wounds himself intentionally to escape the trenches, and his subsequent refuge with a theatrical troupe known as The Outcasts. VRT notes that the production stands as Belgium’s official submission for the 2027 Academy Awards following a run that included competing for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and serving as the opening film at Film Fest Gent.

Trench Warfare Meets Theatrical Sanctuary

The narrative contrasts the brutal reality of the frontline with the creative sanctuary found behind enemy lines. Vrt.be reports that Pierre encounters Francis, the flamboyant leader of a group of performers staging revues for exhausted soldiers. Dhont developed the script after studying historical photographs of Belgian and German troops dressing as women to perform in camp shows, using those archival records to explore themes of identity and art during wartime. VRT adds that the central relationship deepens into an intense romance between two recruits experiencing both combat and first love simultaneously, and whether their bond can survive a return to civilian life.

First-Time Actors Take Lead Roles

Neither lead actor brought prior professional film experience to the production. VRT points out that Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne were cast by Dhont, continuing the director’s practice of discovering fresh talent following earlier casting choices like Victor Polster and Eden Dambrine. The pair received joint recognition as best actors at Cannes for portraying youths entering military service. Vrt.be notes that the ensemble balances gritty combat sequences with the tender, protective environment of the travelling troupe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coward

How did the lead actors prepare for their roles?

Emmanuel Macchia and Valentin Campagne had no prior professional acting experience before being cast by director Lukas Dhont, as reported by Vrt.be. VRT notes that their collaborative performances earned them a joint best actor award at the Cannes Film Festival.

What historical events inspired the film’s plot?

Lukas Dhont based the storyline on archival photographs of Belgian and German soldiers who performed in drag revues behind the front lines during the First World War, according to Vrt.be. VRT states that these historical variety shows offered troops a temporary escape from trench warfare.

What is the film’s status regarding awards season?

VRT reports that Coward is Belgium’s official submission for the 2027 Oscars. The project previously competed for the Palme d’Or at Cannes and opened Film Fest Gent.