Benedict Cumberbatch to Receive Golden Eye Award at Zurich Film Festival 2025

Image Credit: Benedict Cumberbatch © Gavin Bond / Courtesy of Zurich Film Festival

The Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) has announced that acclaimed British actor Benedict Cumberbatch will be honored with the prestigious Golden Eye Award during this year’s edition, taking place from September 25 to October 5, 2025.

Cumberbatch, known worldwide for his role as Sherlock Holmes and his contributions to both indie cinema and global blockbusters, will accept the award on September 29, followed by a special ZFF Masters session where he will reflect on his career and craft.

The award celebrates his impressive range and versatility — from The Power of the Dog and The Imitation Game to his powerful voice performance as Smaug in The Hobbit trilogy and his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Universe.

This year, Cumberbatch also stars in and co-produces The Thing with Feathers, a poignant drama directed by Dylan Southern. The film, produced by his company SunnyMarch alongside Lobo Films, tells the story of a grieving father navigating life with his two sons after the loss of his wife.

ZFF Director Christian Jungen praised Cumberbatch as "one of the most versatile character actors of his generation," applauding his deep emotional portrayals across stage and screen.

In response, Cumberbatch expressed his gratitude, stating:
"I’m deeply honored to be invited to the Zurich Film Festival to receive the Golden Eye Award. This festival plays a vital role in shining a light on filmmakers worldwide and championing creative storytelling."

Audiences can look forward to celebrating a true modern icon in Zurich this fall.