India, Sept. 13 -- "Woman Unknown", a drama about Denmark in the aftermath of the Nazi occupation directed by May el-Toukhy, won the prestigious Golden Lion at the 83rd Venice Film Festival on Saturday, while veteran actor John Malkovich took the best actor prize for his performance in the dark CIA comedy "Wild Horse Nine".

The Maggie Gyllenhaal-led jury announced the awards at the festival's closing ceremony.

Malkovich, who was not present at the ceremony as he is shooting in Montreal, sent a video message expressing his gratitude.

"I am humbled to be chosen for this award, which has been given to so many wonderful actors," he said.

El-Toukhy, the only woman to have solely directed a film in the main competition this year, became the...