Michael Haneke took his second Palme D'Or at the Cannes film festival for 'Amour' his film about the relationship between an elderly couple and the impact a stroke has on their lives. But it was a fantastic night for Romanian film, with Cristian Mungiu's După Dealuri winning two awards. Romanian actresses Crisitina Flutur and Cosmina Stratan shared the best actress award for their parts as Alina and Voichița in 'După Dealuri' (Beyond the Hills).

As well as beating off competition from some big names in the festival's Official Selection, Cristina and Cosmina's achievement is all the more remarkable as it was their first time acting in a feature film. Director Cristian Mungiu picked up the award for 'Best Screenplay' for the film. He previously won the prestigious Palme D'Or, the festival's top prize, in 2007 with '4 months, 3 weeks and 2 days.' The award for Best Actor went to Mads Mikkelsen in 'Jagten' (The Hunt) directed by Thomas Vinterberg, while the award for Best Director was won by Carlos Reygabas for 'Post Tenebras Lux.'

The Grand Prix, considered the festival's second place after the Palme D'Or went to 'Reality' directed by Matteo Garrone, while Veteran British Director Ken Loach won the Jury Prize for his film “The Angels' Share.' 'Sessiz-Be Deng (Silent) directed by L.Rezan Yesilbas won the Palme d'Or for Short Film.

We wrote about După Dealuri here.

Liam Lever, liam@romania-insider.com