The film “Aurora Borealis” by Valeriya Kim, a co-production between Hungary, Belgium, Portugal, and Kazakhstan, will make its world premiere in the international competition of the “Pardi di Domani” section.

Meanwhile, the “Open Doors” section will host the Swiss premiere of “O Profeta” (The Prophet) by Mozambican filmmaker Ique Langa, which previously premiered at the Rotterdam Film Festival.

According to the Rotterdam International Film Festival website, this co-production between Mozambique, Qatar, and South Africa tells the story of how "when Pastor Hélder’s faith begins to fade, he turns to witchcraft to reclaim it, gaining miraculous powers in exchange for sacrifices."

"Luminously shot in black and white, this austere debut unfolds with a serene intensity, revealing how doubt and darkness seep into everyday life," wrote Rotterdam festival director Vanja Kaludjercic.

In the short- and medium-length film categories, “Submergido” by Mozambican filmmaker Ariel Añez and “Time to Change” by Angolan filmmaker Pocas Pascoal will screen at Locarno, both in their Swiss premieres.

The 79th Locarno Festival will take place from 5 to 15 August.

This year, the festival will honour American director Darren Aronofsky with the Leopardo d'Onore (Lifetime Achievement Award) and actress Isabella Rossellini with the Excellence Award.

Icelandic producer Sigurjón Sighvatsson will receive the Raimondo Rezzonico Award, while actress Asia Argento will be honoured with a career award and artist Rick Baker with the Vision Award. Actress Virginie Efira will be honoured with the Leopard Club Award.