‘Żejtune’ Director Alex Camilleri Wins Best Screenplay Award At Tribeca Film Festival

Maltese writer and director Alex Camilleri has been awarded the Best Screenplay prize at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival for his feature film Żejtune.

The award was presented during the festival's awards ceremony in New York, where the film was competing in the International Competition section, one of Tribeca's leading showcases for contemporary world cinema.

The jury praised the screenplay for its ability to draw audiences into a unique world while supporting the performances of its cast.

Accepting the award, Camilleri said it was a privilege to tell stories from Malta and thanked the festival for providing a platform to share Maltese culture with international audiences.

He also paid tribute to the cast, producers and crew behind the production.

Żejtune recently celebrated its North American premiere at the festival and received additional screenings during its run in New York. Camilleri attended alongside members of the cast and production team.

The film follows Mar, a young woman determined to leave Malta behind, whose plans are altered after meeting an ageing għana singer whose music reconnects her with the island's traditions and cultural heritage.

Following its success at Tribeca, Żejtune is set to continue its international festival journey with screenings in France, Spain and Croatia later this month.

The production remains on release in Malta, where it has now entered its tenth week in cinemas. The film was produced through an international collaboration and received support from several Maltese and international cultural and film institutions.

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