“I thought the script was stunningly beautiful and surprising”: Théodore Perrin on Nino at Toronto International Film Festival 2025

French director Pauline Loquès’ first feature Nino premiered at Cannes’ Critics Week, where it won the Valbonne Audience Award as well as the festival’s Rising Star Award for lead actor Théodore Perrin’s sweeping performance. The film follows a young man over a weekend, during which he learns and processes the news of his cancer diagnosis.

We spoke to the Canadian breakout talent (currently also starring in Lurker) at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Nino celebrated its international premiere. He discusses meeting Loquès, her approach to filmmaking and the singular tone of the film. Pellerin also shared how Nino’s character is revealed in his focus on individual tasks, rather than any grand emotional outburst.  

Selina Sondermann

Nino does not have a release date yet.