Kim Novak Honored with Icon Award
Film legend Kim Novak, known for her influential roles in Hollywood, recently received the prestigious Icon Award at the Deauville American Film Festival in France on September 6th. The 92-year-old star’s appearance was a rare treat for fans, as she graced the red carpet in a stunning white gown with a silvery overlay.
Benjamin Millepied, a dancer and choreographer, presented the award to Novak. The festival organizers remarked that the honor was meant to celebrate her remarkable journey in the film industry, highlighting her unique approach to acting that deviated from industry stereotypes.
The festival noted, “Far from the female stereotypes shaped by the industry, she asserted her individuality through a raw, instinctive performance style.” After years of being misunderstood, her work is now celebrated as that of a bold and innovative actress.
Her award ceremony coincided with a screening of her new documentary, Kim Novak’s Vertigo, directed by Alexandre O. Philippe. This film offers a closer look at Novak’s life, revealing her as a fiercely independent figure in Hollywood.
Novak gained fame for her roles in iconic films such as Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo and 1955’s Picnic. As her career progressed, she gradually shifted focus from acting to painting, stepping back from the screen in the late ’60s. Her last role was in the 1991 film Liebestraum.
Recently, Novak also received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement during the Venice International Film Festival, where she expressed her gratitude for the recognition of her work. She described the experience as a dream come true and cherished every moment spent in Venice.
Her documentary signifies an important part of her legacy. Her manager, Sue Cameron, emphasized that this film reveals the real Kim Novak, not just the Hollywood star. Novak fiercely defended her individuality, turning down offers that sought to exploit her story for gossip.
Cameron noted, “She’s the last living golden goddess of film,” highlighting Novak’s role as a pioneer for women in the industry.
Following its debut in Venice, Kim Novak’s Vertigo is scheduled to be shown at the BFI London Film Festival this October, ensuring that her remarkable story continues to inspire audiences.
