Yuri from 'La Perra' Wins Top Honor at 2026 Palm Dog Awards in Cannes

The Palm Dog Awards, an unofficial event at Cannes that honors outstanding canine performances in films, has announced its winner for 2026. This year, the award went to Yuri, the rescue dog featured in the movie "La Perra." Directed by Dominga Sotomayor and premiered in Directors’ Fortnight, the film tells the story of Silvia, whose life is changed by the arrival of a stray puppy named Yuri, sparking a desire for motherhood in her. Yuri's journey from a shelter to the big screen was a collaborative effort involving Mirada Animal Chile, the production company PLANTA, and trainers Nicolás Carrillo and Marcela Carrasco, ensuring her well-being throughout the process.
Yuri's role as a puppy in the film was portrayed by Tormenta María, another rescue dog adopted by a member of the production team. After filming, Yuri was successfully adopted into a loving home where she now resides happily and safely. The Palm Dog Awards also recognized Lola from Clio Barnard’s film "I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning" as one of the winners. Past winners of the Palm Dog Awards have included notable canine actors like Messi from "Anatomy of a Fall" and Brandy from "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," with Quentin Tarantino even attending the awards ceremony to accept the prize on behalf of Brandy.
In conclusion, the Palm Dog Awards at Cannes celebrated Yuri, the rescue dog from "La Perra," as the winner of the 2026 edition. The heartwarming story of Yuri's journey from a shelter to the silver screen, along with the recognition of other talented canine actors, highlights the special bond between humans and their furry companions in the world of cinema.