The Best Shorts Competition is proud to announce the latest winners.

The Best Shorts Competition puts filmmakers first and provides a direct opportunity for recognition and publicity for high quality productions. It is international in scope and has granted awards to producers in Australia, Bahrain, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, China, Columbia, Cuba, Denmark, France, Germany, Iceland, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Malta, Martinique, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Republic of Mauritius, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Syrian Arab Republic, Taiwan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

~ Best of Show ~ 

Douglas Petrie – PaPa

Douglas Petrie (USA), PaPa, Film Short – A lonely mechanic builds a mechanical boy – and becomes an unlikely Father to his own creation, brilliantly telling a story about love, loss, and family connection – all without dialogue. From the opening rainy-day scene, the audience is drawn into the pain and loneliness of the man…sadness splashed across his face and body language in what is just the beginning of an exceptional and nuanced performance by Clancy Brown (The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, The Shawshank Redemption). Written and directed by acclaimed Writer / Director Emmy-Nominee Douglas Petrie (Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Daredevil) he takes the audience on an emotional ride with laughter and tears, the affection, joy and emotional depths are palpable without a word being spoken. The charmingly engaging robot flawlessly comes to life by celebrated puppeteer Frank Langeley IV (TRON: Legacy, Spider-Man 2). Beautiful lighting and cinematography by American Society of Cinematographers winner Logan Schneider (Gentefied, Drunk History) accompanied by a touching soundtrack from Zev Burrows (Fox Tale, Absent) and tight editing by Monty Degraff (Daredevil, The Man in the High Castle). Exceptional filmmaking in every aspect from a team of superbly talented pros. Produced by Janina Gavankar (The L Word, True Blood).

~ Outstanding Achievement ~ 

Anna Ludwig – Ole, Benni and the Rest of the Universe

Anna Ludwig (Germany), Ole, Benni and the Rest of the Universe, (Ole, Benni und der Rest des Universums), Children Programming – The story of a friendship between young boys Ole and Benni. Benni has Down syndrome. When he is marginalized by other children, Ole has to choose a side. The fact that Ole is in love for the first time complicates things. It is a story of exclusion and bullying on the one hand and a wonderful, strong friendship on the other. Ludwig tells the story in a way that is poignant and charming, painful and hopeful. The children deliver convincing performances. Leopold Schill, Frederik Dahnk, Helena Prison. The film was funded by the FFF Bayern, BKM, FFA and the Kuratorium Junge deutscher Film.

~ Outstanding Achievement ~ 

Eric M. Klein and Dax Phelan – Final Moments

Eric M. Klein and Dax Phelan (USA), Final Moments, PSA – A potent 30-second Public Service Announcement about the end of life due to COVID-19 and the pain for all involved. A short but deeply raw and poignant message for our times, encouraging the use of masks to save lives. It connects the viewer to the emotional reality of the pandemic, the suffering of those whose lives are lost and the devastation of their families.  Eye-opening, tender and heart-breaking. From award-winning filmmakers Klein (Chimera Strain) and Phelan (Accolade Best of Show, Jasmine) who experienced this tragedy in his own family. Stars: Greg Lucey (Last Dance, Sleepwalk), Maranda Mobley (First Kiss) and Jessica Sherman (Ultimate, Ultimate).

~ Award of Excellence Special Mention ~

Ram Kamal Mukherjee (India), Seasons Greetings, Film Short – A stirring tribute to National Award winner Rituparno Ghosh. It explores Mother-Daughter relationships, unconditional love and acceptance through a creative and well delivered story. Outstanding performances by Lillette Dubey (Best Exotic Marigold Hotel), Celina Jaitly Haag, (Will You Marry Me?) Azhar Khan and Shree Ghatak. With UN Free and Equal Campaign.

PCI Media (USA), Breaking up with Plastics: Caribbean, Video for Social Change – Through a very creative and colorful use of a music video spoof – Natural Girl realizes she has been in a toxic relationship for too long and decides it’s time for a long overdue break-up. Imaginatively using a lighter look at the issue of marine litter and the devastation of plastic pollution. Unique, playful and poignant.

Brian Thomas (USA), Dark Matter, Film Short – Emmy-nominee Thomas tells a story, through the use of dance, portraying a soul going through the pathways of darkness in order to attain a higher plane of existence. Beautiful cinematography and stunning lighting highlight the dancers poetic movements. Stars: Tony-nominee Desmond Richardson, Brit Hay, Moses Alcid.

Marc Bennett (USA), The Tattooed Torah, Jewish – Powerfully narrated by Emmy-winner Ed Asner – this animated film makes teaching children about the holocaust emotionally accessible. Based on the renowned children’s book it recounts a true story of a boy’s rescued Torah. Both sobering and heartful. By The Goldrich Family Foundation and USC Shoah Foundation founded by Oscar-winning legend Steven Spielberg.

Benjamin O’Donnell (Australia), Pentimento, Film Short – Noah is broken. His creative drive, his muse and the woman he loved are gone. Suffering from painting creative block with a gallery breathing down his neck he must find a way to begin again. Creative cinematography and metaphors and achingly authentic performances. Stars Toby Truslove (Bad Mothers), Zoe Trilsbach (Janet King). Producer Paul Sullivan (Danger Close).

Carol Freeman (Ireland), The Bird & the Whale, Animation – A young whale struggling to find his voice. After straying too far from his family to explore a shipwreck, he discovers it’s sole survivor, a caged songbird. Together they struggle to survive lost at sea. Created using charming paint-on-glass technique and carried by a beautiful musical score it is both a lyrical poem and a beautiful fable.

Braden Summers (USA), Frame of Mind, LGBT – Brilliantly crafted single-frame film, features a trans heroine on her four-minute elevator ride in a busy New York apartment building. Skillfully explores both the spectrum of human behavior that trans people experience and the viewer’s own reflection in them. All without words. Vibrant colors, visually stimulating and insightful. Stars Aus Wang.

Scott D. Rosenbaum (USA), Life & Larry Brown, Doc Short – Chronicles the tragic story of Larry Brown from his torturous upbringing in Georgia, through 34 years in prison and his salvation in a guitar. A powerful and close-up meditation peels back the layers on race in America through the eyes of 65-year-old Larry Brown as he reflects on love, loss, regret and hope. Deftly directed, poignant and deeply impactful.

Jake Robb (Australia), Safe Space, Film Short – It’s 1979 rife with Police corruption. Witness 451 has some damaging information. In the interrogation room the detectives unleash a finely engineered routine to ensure that doesn’t happen. Well-paced, creative, with convincing performances and twist ending. Erick Mitsak, Gregory Caine, Mark Simmonds. Moody shots by DOP ACS Gold Award winner Matt Wood.

Adam Orton (USA), The Aspirant, Film Short – In a futuristic society, a brilliant young girl falls in love with a wise Elder – but he rejects her because of her age and it is forbidden. As society changes and she ages, he is forced to face his feelings for her. Thought provoking and imaginative. Stars Michael Cortez (H O P E), Talia Goodman (After the Last Hour). Produced by renowned composer / writer ASCAP winner Michael A Levine.

Thad Lee (USA), All That You Love Will Be Carried Away, Film Short – A Salesman’s love of bathroom graffiti may save his life on a cold, dark Nebraska night. Based on a short story by Stephen King. Multidimensional characters are inherently flawed but relatably human and vividly depicted with sound direction and outstanding performances. Johnny McPhail (True Detective), Rhes Low (NCIS: New Orleans).

Caris Vujcec (USA), Pepper: Ricochet, Webisode – Ex-CIA super spy Pepper and her team face Russian mobsters and find themselves running for their lives. Dramatic story of personal challenge with unique, intriguing and strong vulnerable characters with a bad-ass female lead. Stars Caris Vujcec (Law & Order SVU), Michael Pemberton (Bridge of Spies), Scott Janes, Sidney Williams.

~ Award of Excellence ~ 

Adam Weber (Australia), The Body, Film Short, Script / Writer
Alison Taupier (USA), Bobcats On Three, Documentary Short
Arestia Rosenberg (USA), Name Crew: Tiny Toones, Documentary Short, Asian
Ariel Song (USA), The Very Hungry Ducky, Animation (Student), Nature / Environment / Wildlife (Student)
Artie Romero (USA), Monkey & Cat, Children / Family Programming, Comedy Program / Series
Ben Holmes and Jacob Patrick (USA), Aires, Documentary Short, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Benjamin O’Donnell (Australia), Pentimento, Original Score (Pentimento composed by Andy Scott)
Berin Tuzlic (Bosnia and Herzegovina), WAR HERO, Animation
Braden Summers (USA), FRAME OF MIND, LGBT
Brandon Lopez (USA), Long Way Down, Animation (Student)
C.G. Ryche (USA), The Color of Red, Original Score (The Color of Life / The Color Red composed by C.G. Ryche)
Caris Vujcec (USA), Pepper: Ricochet, Actress: Leading (Caris Vujcec as Pepper), Actor: Leading (Michael Pemberton as Bald Sam), Women Filmmakers, Direction (Caris Vujcec)
Christian Antonini and Tanice Arnold (USA), Stick To Manual, Animation, Film Short
David Spring (United Kingdom), HotHed, Film Short
Elisabeth Seth Rippe (Sweden), Greta’s Bed and Breakfast, Women Filmmakers
Eric M. Klein and Dax Phelan (USA), FINAL MOMENTS, Direction (Dax Phelan)
Fadi Awad (Canada), Fadi Awad – We Are Here, Original Score
James Brammer, Ballard High School Digital Filmmaking Program (USA), One Minute to Midnight, Film Short
Jason Chao (USA), The Day of Atonement, Actor: Leading (Leon M. Brown as Orion Beaumont), Film Short
Jehnovah Carisle (USA), Junior, Actress: Leading (Sharon Mahari as Nikole), Film Short, African American
Josh Cummins (Australia), Cherry Swamp Road, Film Short (Student)
Juan Pablo Montalva (Chile), The Squat ( La Toma ), Documentary Short
Kaifu Liu (USA), The Metamorphosis, Animation (Student)
Lance Kawas (USA), Rise of Odin’s 9, Film Short
Liu Kai QI (China), bathhouse drummer, Film Short (Student)
Matthew Michael Ross (USA), MOTHER’S DAY MEMORIES, Disability Issues, Film Short
Maxwell Hamilton (USA), UNBOUND, Music Video, Experimental
Mehmet Tığlı (Turkey), Sycamore, Disability Issues, Actor: Leading (Mahmut Gökgöz as Old Man)
Michael Everett (USA), Love & Rock N’ Roll, Music Video
Mikhail Somov (Russia), Girl with the Key, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Natalija Gormalova (Ghana), Spirits We Dance, Women Filmmakers, Cinematography
Nikki Chapman (USA), Melted, Animation (Student)
Olivia Perkins (USA), Chums, Animation (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
PCI Media (USA), Breaking Up With Plastics: Caribbean, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
PCI Media (USA), Let’s Talk with Sheila Khama, Documentary Short, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Roderick Fenske (USA), What do we do?, Film Short
Rodrigo Tavares (Portugal), the Edge, Actress: Leading (Luisa Ortigoso as Maria), Direction
Sonia Bajaj (USA), The Perfect Date, Web Tube Length Video
Tom Weston (USA), Daisy, Animation, Children / Family Programming, Narration / Voice-Over Talent (Tony Impieri)
Tommy Snider (USA), Be Still, Actor: Leading (Tommy Snider as Adam), Film Short
William De Vital (USA), The War, Music Video
Xin Li (Australia), The Winter, Animation (Student)
You Peng (USA), The Friend, Asian (Student)
Yuval David (USA), One Actor Short, Film Short, Direction

 ~ Award of Merit Special Mention ~

Aaron Pendergast (USA), Red City Radio, Documentary Short, Editing
Abbey Spacil (USA), Sonya Slidez, Documentary Short, Women Filmmakers
Adam Orton (USA), The Aspirant, Actress: Leading (Talia Goodman as Mathilda), Actor: Leading (Michael Cortez as Jerome)
Alan Mascareno (USA), Safe and Warm (Lullaby for Jesus), Music Video, Christian
Andrew Crocker (USA), The Woman I Fell in Love With, Film Short
Anika Benkov (USA), The Binding of Itzik, Jewish (Student), Actor: Leading (Student) (Eli Rosen as Itzik), Film Short (Student)
Björn Granberg Ahlmark (Sweden), Art Is Angst, Animation
C.G. Ryche (USA), The Color of Red, Film Short, Direction
Caroline de Otero (France), A Sob in the Throat – Stories from Gurs’ camp 1939-1945, Documentary Short
Damian Overton and Ed Cali (Australia), LUCA AND ISO, Actor: Leading (Ed Cali as Luca)
Dan Ramm, imaginnova / Otraway (USA), Alabaster, Viewer Impact: Motivational / Inspirational, Animation, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Dane Elcar (USA), Oak, Original Score (Composed by Coarses)
Fella Cederbaum (USA), The Door, Script / Writer
Flicker Filmworks  (USA), Holistic Health Community: An Emerging Healthcare Model based on the Economics of Generosity, Documentary Short
Glenn McAllen-Finney (United Kingdom), Project 444, Post-Production Overall
Holger Klussmann (Germany), The Love of Jesus, Christian, Religion / Ethics
Jack Gorman (USA), Celtic Cross, Film Short, Ensemble Cast
Joe Laporte, David Liehn, Jacob Zetino, and Matthew Dennis Lewis, Dapper Penguin Entertainment (USA), Sins Unveiled, LGBT
Kat Conway (USA), Don’t Be Dumb Use Your Thumb, Public Service Programming / PSA, Women Filmmakers
Mario Abbade (Brazil), Love is Now the Stardust of Yesterday…, LGBT
Maya Witters (United Kingdom), The Turtles, LGBT, Women Filmmakers
Mohamed Haridy (United Kingdom), HALAL MEAT, Film Short,
Randy Schmidt (Japan), Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Animation
Rodrigo Tavares (Portugal), The Edge, Actor: Supporting (Beto Coville as João)
Sara Caldwell and Nancy Hendrickson (USA), Boomers Season 2, Web Series, Ensemble Cast, Women Filmmakers, Comedy Program / Series
Sonia Bajaj (USA), A Ride To Heaven, Film Short, Women Filmmakers
Sonia Bajaj (USA), Alone, Web Tube Length Video
Tiffany Rhodes (USA), Harbor Island, Actor: Leading (Pat Dortch as Sheriff Ben)
 

~ Award of Merit ~

Aidan Letendre (USA), INERTIA, Film Short (Student)
Anika Benkov (USA), The Binding of Itzik, Actress: Leading (Student) (Malky Goldman as Ruchel), LGBT (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Anna Nikolaidis, Theodora Madarou, Michail Mavromoustakos (Greece), TREATMENT VALUE, Film Short, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery
Anthony Caldarella (USA), Olly, Film Short
Antoine McKnight (USA), World Peace, Film Short
Ashante P.T. Stokes (USA), Praise the Maker, Animation
Ashley Chugg (Canada), Key of T, Documentary Short, LGBT
Ben Fee (USA), Exquisite Shorts, Volume 1, Experimental, Concept
Bo Lin (China), <<danyang>>, Documentary Short, Arts / Cultural / Performance / Plays
Brennan Thomas McGee (USA), Apartment 28, Film Short (Student), Actor: Leading (Joel Sauter as Robbie) (Student)
Calvin Kai Ku and Ken Newman (USA), What Am I Afraid Of, Music Video
Caris Vujcec (USA), Pepper: Ricochet, Actor: Supporting (Scott Janes as Bobby), Actor: Supporting (Sidney Williams as Archie)
Chapman Hyatt (USA), Beyond the Light, Script / Writer
Charles and Mary Love (USA), Oman, Documentary Short
Charlotte Quintanar (USA), The Quarantine Rag, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Chia Chen and Jack Gastelbondo (USA), 5, Actress: Leading (Chia Chen as Lena), Actor: Leading (Daniel Olson as Nick)
Conny Conrad (Germany), Live Your Life Today, Music Video, Original Song (Live Your Life Today composed by Conny Conrad)
Coreetta Buchan (United Kingdom), TRIALS OF VOLKORE (Part 4), Film Short
Craig Hutchison (USA), Donna On The Go: JUDGE, Disability Issues
Damian Overton and Ed Cali (Australia), LUCA AND ISO, Film Short
Dane Elcar (USA), Oak, Experimental
David Har’el (USA), Inertia, Latin / Hispanic
David Safin (USA), Backwards Sometimes, Web Tube Length Video
David Spring (United Kingdom), HotHed, Actress: Leading (Nimisha Odedra as Rhea)
Dennis Trombly (USA), Sacred Belonging, Film Short
Douglas Alves Ferreira (Brazil), Dreams, Experimental
Elizabeth Usher (Australia), There’s No Place for a Uke on Halloween, Music Video
Elizabeth Usher (Australia), A Kinder Shade of Green, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Music Video, Special Purpose Productions
Emily Skye (USA), River, Film Short, Direction, Cinematography, Actress: Leading (Mary Cameron Rogers as River), Actress: Supporting (Alexandra Rose as Amanda)
Fadi Awad (Canada), Fadi Awad – We Are Here, Web Tube Length Video
Fella Cederbaum (USA), A Tear, Original Score
Ford R. Corl (USA), Make Me, Music Video, Creativity / Originality
Freddie Jarrett (USA), Woke, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Gautam Chaturvedi (India), Work From Home, Film Short
George Wingard (USA), We Came A Long Way By Faith:  Catholic Hill and St. James the Greater Catholic Church, Documentary Short, Christian
Georgia Fort and Krysta Rayford, iPondr.com (USA), May Day: COVID Across America, African American, Documentary Short, Women Filmmakers
Giovannie Espiritu (USA), ALLY 3000, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Women Filmmakers, Script / Writer
Glenn McAllen-Finney (United Kingdom), Project 444, Film Short
Ivo Nagel (USA), FAR-FLUNG, Experimental
Jason Silverstein (USA), The Vanishing Twin, Experimental
Jaswant Dev Shrestha and Rashmi Rustagi (USA), UNBORN, Direction (Jaswant Dev Shrestha), Film Short
Jean Paul San Pedro (USA), It’s that Guy! by Inspector Bros, Film Short
Jeff Willy (USA), Socially Distanced, Web Series, Actor: Leading (Jeff Willy as Adam)
Jerry Sun (USA), One Day, Asian (Student)
Jill Tenney (USA), Mercredi’s Monde, Web Series, Women Filmmakers
Job Michiel van Zuijlen (USA), A Glint of Hope, Animation, Web Tube Length Video
Joe Laporte, David Liehn, Jacob Zetino, and Matthew Dennis Lewis, Dapper Penguin Entertainment (USA), Sins Unveiled, Actor: Leading (Matthew Dennis Lewis as Henry)
Jonah Koslofsky (USA), Cut Your Teeth, Film Short (Student)
Jonas Solberg Rydningen (Norway), Let Me In, Actor: Leading (Anders Lidin Hansen as son)
Julia Griffey (USA), The Modern Makers, Educational / Instructional / Training
Justice Gamble and Alex Benjamin (USA), wow, Film Short
Kamala Varma (USA), The Mediocre Shapeshifter, Web Tube Length Video (Student)
Kassia Binkowski, AJ Oscarson (USA), Human Desire, Women Filmmakers
Kaufmann Productions Pty Ltd (Australia), Visible Farmer, Web Series, Women Filmmakers
Laura Kay (USA), PETUNIA’S PLAYHOUSE Episode 4, Children / Family Programming
Mark Pappas (USA), The Ruins, Documentary Short
Martín D. Guevara (Spain), The Last Stand, Documentary Short
Matthew Maio Mackay (Australia), Tooth 4 Tooth, LGBT (Student), Direction (Student)
Maya Adam (USA), COVID-19 Together we are Stronger, Public Service Programming / PSA
Mayk Azzato (Germany), MY FOLLOWERS, Film Short
Melinda Boyer (USA), Beyond The Secret – The Awakening, Documentary Short, Women Filmmakers
Milad Davari Dolat Abadi (Iran), The Last Survivor, Film Short
Morgan Paar and Vân Nguyen, Nomadic Frames (USA), Growing for Good, Documentary Short, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Women Filmmakers (Vân Nguyen)
Nathan Rodriguez (USA), Al Dente, Film Short (Student)
Pablo G Velez (USA), I Wanna Quarantine With You, Music Video
Panos Anestis (Greece), My Dear Anna, Experimental, Original Score (Composed by Dimos Stathoulis)
Pany Konstantinidou (United Kingdom), Anima, Women Filmmakers (Student)
Pete Vanlaw, TOJ Productions (USA), For the Life of Me, Social Change, Jewish
R.J. Hall (USA), GODSPEED MC | For God and Country, Documentary Short, Christian
Renja Schmakeit (Germany), Incurable, Film Short (Student), Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Richeler Aladin (USA), Ms. Anita, Original Score (Composed by Andrew Asemokai)
Roshni Datta, Rajiv Nema, Deepak Sharma and Ritendra Datta (USA), Corona ki Jung, Music Video
Ryan Krall (USA), Huck’s Game, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Sara Cornelissen and Steff Donkers (Netherlands), Diving for Balance, Nature / Environment / Wildlife (Student)
Sara Jacques (USA), WHITENESS., Liberation / Social Justice / Protest (Student)
Sarah Sabatke (USA), Thoughts and Prayers, Documentary Short (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Scott Alin (USA), The Quarantine: Chapter 1-Namaste, Film Short
Shelley White (United Kingdom), 2Colours, Women Filmmakers
Sheran Goodspeed Keyton (USA), Empty Nest, Original Score
Sina Sultani (Canada), Refuge, Islamic, Creativity / Originality
Sonia Bajaj (USA), Remember This, Women Filmmakers, Public Service Programming / PSA
Thomas Phillips (USA), UNCLAIMED REMAINS “Forgotten”, Television – Pilot Program, Cinematography
Tiffany Rhodes (USA), Harbor Island, Television – Pilot Program, Actress: Leading (Lacey Caroline as Jamie)
Timothy Blackton (USA), TECHS, Film Short, Direction
Tommy Graef (USA), Segments of Jonah – episodes 1 & 2, Experimental, Creativity / Originality
Tommy Snider (USA), Be Still, Christian
Tyson Hunsaker (USA), The Watch, Film Short
Vergi Rodriguez (USA), Dreamer, Film Short, Latin / Hispanic, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Women Filmmakers, Direction
Wisher Zhu (Germany), TOMORROW, Asian, Film Short
Yana Ivantcheva, Tommaso Aglietti, Derek Sigurdsson, Josh Bird (United Kingdom), Under the Skin, Women Filmmakers, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery

~ Award of Recognition ~

Abraham Chen (USA), Newborn, Film Short (Student)
Adam Gilmore (USA), Lament for a Wednesday, Film Short, Cinematography
Aishwarya Sonar and Shira Alon (USA), Shift, Film Short
Alessandro Gordillo (USA), Boy Wonder, Christian (Student), Film Short (Student)
Alex Armando Torres (USA), THE NOTHING, Film Short
Alfonssette Medina (Dominican Republic), “Wanna Get Away” Southwest Airlines Mock Commercial, Commercial / Infomercial (Student)
Amr El-Bayoumi (USA), Hot Towels, Film Short
Anlan Tao (China), Kite, Asian
Arthur Joseph (USA), Seen Already, Actor: Leading (Reggie Gaskins as Clay), Actor: Supporting (Derek OCampo as Ron), Film Short
Ash Yaghoubi (USA), Dirty Gamble, Film Short
Ashante P.T. Stokes (USA), Praise the Maker, Viewer Impact: Motivational / Inspirational
Cali Gilbert (USA), INVISIBLE, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Charles and Mary Love (USA), Dream Traveler, Experimental
Charles and Mary Love (USA), The Dream Revisited, Civil Rights in Perspective, African American
Charles and Mary Love (USA), Iran, A Cultural Treasure, Documentary Short
Cliff Skelton (Canada), Not Your Average Bear, Actor: Leading (Simon Longmore as John Sullivan/ Mike Callahan)
Coreetta Buchan (United Kingdom), TRIALS OF VOLKORE (Part 4), Experimental
Coreetta Buchan (United Kingdom), JOURNEY OF THREE WORLDS (The Retake ), Experimental
Craig Hutchison (USA), Donna On The Go: JUDGE, Webisode
Cydney Cochrane (Canada), Short Stay, Ensemble Cast
Daniel Rios (USA), Monster, Animation (Student), Web Tube Length Video (Student)
Daniel Schwachter (USA), Mantis, Experimental, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
David Har’el (USA), Inertia, Creativity / Originality
Debi Yazbeck (USA), Out of the Walls, Women Filmmakers, Actress: Leading (Tomorrow Shea as Lori Hawes)
Elizabeth Usher (Australia), There’s No Place for a Uke on Halloween, Animation
Emma Scharf (USA), Released, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Emma Scharf (USA), A Book, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Emma Scharf (USA), Quiet, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Emre Orun (USA), Battle, Actor: Leading (Emre Orun as Horseman / Emre)
Fella Cederbaum (USA), When Thoughts Stick To Your Mind, Film Short, Movie Trailer
Fella Cederbaum (USA), A Tear, Film Short
Fella Cederbaum (USA), The Door, Film Short
Forget Patrice (France), Gaza, One Football, One Leg, Documentary Short, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Freddie Jarrett (USA), Woke, African American
Geezy Hamilton (USA), SHUGA, African American, Film Short
Gideon Khachadourian (USA), The Measure of Forgiveness, Christian (Student)
Grace Norman, Miclngrace Studios (South Africa), DARK MOON, Actor: Leading (Michael ‘Micl Snr’ Norman as Rogue Taze), Experimental, Women Filmmakers
Greg L. Hines (USA), Girl In The Mirror, Music Video, African American
Harrell D. Williams, Sr. (USA), A Natural Choice, Film Short
Hugo Teugels (Belgium), AnoMiC, Music Video, Movie Trailer
Isaac Ruth and Christine Renaud (USA), Safer at Home, Film Short, Actress: Leading (Christine Renaud as her), Direction
James E. Carter / Victor Arnez (USA), I GOT THE LAST LAUGH!, Film Short
Jared Hines (USA), Lo Scamp (The Scamp), Mobile / Cell Phone Media
Jason Silverstein (USA), The Vanishing Twin, Film Short
Jenness  Rouse (USA), The Shannon O’Brian Chronicles, Ep. 19 Beers ‘N Masks, Actress: Leading (Jenness Rouse as Shannon O’Brian), Webisode
Jenness Rouse (USA), The Shannon O’Brian Chronicles, Ep. 19.5, TIKTok-IN’!  Sink da Mayo, Web Tube Length Video
Jennifer DiMarco (USA), Trade, Disability Issues
Jennifer DiMarco (USA), My Wyvern Heart, Actress: Leading (Faith Aoibhinn DiMarco as Julia), Original Score (Flight of the Wyvern composed by Brianne DiMarco)
Johnny Ray Campbell (USA), The Traffic Stop, Film Short
Jonathan Croft (Canada), Herman Faustus Chatman Pt. 2 – The Music Team, Music Video
Jon-Mark Hurley (USA), The Germaphobe’s Guide, Humor/Humorist, Actor Leading (Jon-Mark Hurley as Jon-Mark, The Germaphobe)
Joseph Lawson (USA), In Place of My Thumb., Actor: Leading (Joseph Lawson as Joe/Various)
Josh Karan (USA), Birth Of A Union, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Julia Levanne and Myhraliza Aala (USA), Brightside, Asian
Julian Green (USA), Elsagate, Children / Family Programming (Student), Documentary Short (Student), Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger, On-Camera Talent (Student) (Julian Green as self)
Justin Jay Jones (USA), History, Web Tube Length Video, Documentary Short
Ken Holmes and Audrey Seybold (USA), Chatter, Experimental, Mobile / Cell Phone Media
Kevin Veatch (USA), Gargantua vs. the Robot, Experimental, Web Tube Length Video, Script / Writer
Lea Welles (USA), Travel Today with Lea, Television – Pilot Program
Liam McIntyre (USA), The King of Quarantine, Actor: Leading (Student) (Liam McIntyre as Liam MacBain), Humor / Humorist
Luis Lazo- Martinez (USA), La calle del Rio, Film Short
Matthew Cassani (USA), F.T.P., Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Michael Kuciak (USA), Stairs, Experimental, Editing
Michael Mayers (USA), Bottled Up, Actress: Leading (Ginger Britt Daniels as Martha)
Min-gyeong Jo (Korea), ARROWHEAD HILL, THE 66 YEARS FROZEN IN TIME, Women Filmmakers
Mokhtar Namdar (Iran), A Little Death is Needed for Life, Documentary Short
Olivia Sokol (USA), The Pilgrims, Documentary Short (Student)
Parin Intarasorn (Thailand), Bedsore, Asian
Philip Welch (USA), American Zen, Documentary Short
Richeler Aladin (USA), The Masked 4, Film Short, Direction
Richeler Aladin (USA), Ms. Anita, Film Short
Ritendra Datta (USA), Dark Circle, Asian, Film Short
Ron Clemons (USA), MAN, African American
Ryan D. Coulton (USA), The Rats in the Walls, Film Short
Ryan Krall (USA), Huck’s Game, Animation (Student)
Sheran Goodspeed Keyton (USA), Empty Nest, Film Short, Direction
Shubham Shourya (India), Kaarigar (Artisan), Experimental
Skyy Cannon and Sierra Williams (USA), Zenobia’s Lost Ones, Film Short
Sophia Costanzo, Loyola Marymount University (USA), Father Daughter, Latin / Hispanic (Student), Film Short (Student)
Victor C. Dean (USA), AT ANY MOMENT, Documentary Short, Direction
Whitney Powell (USA), Undressed, Film Short, Woman Filmmaker
Yue Yuan (China), The Silent Ride, Documentary Short (Student), Disability Issues (Student)
Zachary Viola (Canada), Parallel, Film Short (Student)

KVIFF Eastern Promises, the festival's Industry section, has the exciting mission of being a bridge between talented filmmakers and their potential partners, festivals and audiences. This year, a total of 41 film projects were screened on the 5 platforms dedicated to feature films, documentaries and new cinematographic forms in development.

22nd Far East Film Festival Opens Online in Udine

Reprinted from © Movie Magazine International , San Francisco

Victim(s) Layla JI (Malaysia 2020) ©FEFF

By Moira Jean Sullivan

The 22nd Far East Film Festival (FEFF) located in UDINE ITALY is held online this year using the same platform as the Cannes Film Market  (Marché du Film) at the end of June. 46 films  are to be screened June 26 - July 4, 2020  (4 world premieres) through memberships to the festival.

 

There have been many excellent films so far, and these are some of my favorites:

 

Changfeng Town (China 2019).

CHANGFENG TOWN (The City of Changfeng) directed by the young independent director WANG Jing  ( China 2019) is the story of a small rural village in Southern China. Complete with the village dentist, an ice cream machine and a corner cinema, It’s not hard to notice the stiff old movie chairs, mostly high back benches where classic Chinese films as well as foreign films are screened in the village square. Films such as Fellini’s La Strada and Truffaut’s 400 Blows are screened every night. A gang of young boys get into all kinds of mischief with each other and the villagers. "Red Head "is in love with the cashier at the cinema who is in love with a poet who someday will become famous he says. Five chapters concern endearing developments in this coming of age film and reminds me of the Christmas classic A Christmas Story set in the 40s’. With Elvis in the soundtrack this film's time period seems to emanate from the 50s. The cinematography is excellent and the different anecdotes related by the author of this film in voice over  from his experiences of growing up.

 

ASHFALL (Ash Rain) directed by KIM Byung-seo, LEE Hae-jun (South Korea 2019) was the opening night film - a disaster film with a lot going on including a huge 9.0 earthquake that triggers the re-activation of Mount Paetku, a volcano on the Chinese–North Korean border. Before calamity strikes North Korea is planning on turning over six ICBMs to the US, effectively ending the cold war. A scientist discovers if the bombs are detonated underground a huge volcanic eruption will be avoided.  The army has sent in a task force to find the location of the missiles that have been reported by the spy Ri Jun-pyeong played by the talented (Lee Byung-hun), to stop the eruption of a volcano.

 

Hong Kong director Johnnie To has been to Udine many times and this year he has brought a riveting semi- musical of high energy, CHASING DREAM (Chasing the Dream)

(Hong Kong / China 2019). the story of a boxer and a young woman whose songs have been ripped off by a popular singer. The union of the boxer and the vocalist is engaging with many inventive high action scenes involving song and dance.

 

Chasing the Dream (Johnny To 2020) ©FEFF

 

I-DOCUMENTARY OF THE JOURNALIST (Documentary on a journalist) by MORI Tatsuya  (Japan 2019) follows real life investigative journalist Mochizuki Isoko who writes for a major Japanese newspaper. She investigates corruption in the Japanese government, and cover ups that involve environment hazards and scandals the office of the president. Isoko’s relentless interview techniques at press conferences put government experts on their heads although on camera they come across as deceitful and brain dead. The tireless journalist and the thorough documentary journalism of Tatsuya MORI make an excellent team in an inside view of Japanese media.

 

Layla JI  brings a story of young teenagers and how they turn to bullying classmates with their cellphones, which leads to revenge and murder. The cruelty of the teens to each other and their use of mobile phones to film and humiliate their classmates mirrors the media saturation of the larger society – The affordability of cell phones and easy access to them is pervasive and Layla Ji has made a powerful film, in VICTIM(s) (Malaysia 2020).

 

In addition to these new films from Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Indonesia are panels on the new developments in these countries in the film business. For example, Darcy Paquet,  the South Korean FEFF expert did the subtitles for Parasite that won the Palme d' or last year at Cannes  and six Oscars - directed by Bong Joon Ho. He writes  how this film has caused a stir in the country as well as Covid 19.

 

This is an excellent festival and one of the top this year that made the bold decision to go 100% online and offer the festival to the public. A special treat was the fourth and final  IP MAN 4  (2020) set in San Francisco includes scenes where Bruce Lee invites his  famous teacher to the US.

© 2020 - Moira Sullivan - Air Date: 07/03/20
Movie Magazine International

22nd Far East Film Festival - Report 2

By Moira Sullivan

Golden Mulberry and Audience Award
Derek Tsang's Better Days

Dongyu Zhou in Better Days

Malaysian director Layla Ji

© 2020 - Moira Sullivan - Air Date: 07/08/20
©Movie Magazine International

The Creepy Line by M.A.Taylor, has won a prestigious  Award of Merit from The Accolade Global Film Competition. The award was given for M.A.Taylor's exciting  documentary, The Creepy Line, which reveals the stunning degree to which society is manipulated by Google and Facebook and blows the lid off the remarkably subtle – hence powerful – manner in which they do it..

“I am extremely proud  and happy for the team behind the Creepy Line who has put up such a remarkable work on the film,  amazing production values and a gripping stor commented Bruno Chatelin, festival agent for the film.”)

The Accolade recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. Information about the Accolade and a list of recent winners can be found at www.accoladecompetition.org.

In winning an Accolade, The Creepy Line joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award including the Oscar winning production of The Lady in Number Six by Malcolm Clarke, the very talented Dave Bossert of Disney for his short documentary, The Tunes Behind The Toons, Hollywood industry veteran Ron Howard for When You Find Me and Highwire Films Australia for their popular ABC TV series twentysomething.

Rick Prickett, who chairs The Accolade Global Film Competition, had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”

For more information visit https://www.thecreepyline.com/

And https://www.filmfestivals.com/blog/the_creepy_line

The 12th edition of FIDLab took place online on July 6th - 10th.

Out of more than 400 international applications, FIDLab, an international coproduction platform for film projects at any stage of development selected, 15 projects reflecting 20 production countries.

The FIDLab takes place in two steps. First, a live presentation of the projects, this year, a video presentation. In a second phase, one-to-one meetings with professionals, this year, virtual. During this edition, more than 280 one-to-one meetings were held.

The jury, composed of Fiorella Moretti, founder and CEO of the international sales company LuxBox; Matthijs Wouter Knol , director of the European Film Market/Berlinale; and Paolo Moretti, General Delegate at La Quinzaine des Réalisateurs, decided to award 9 different in-kind prizes provided by the 11 FIDlab partners:

The Award endowed by Air France goes to:       

BAUMETTES
by Sharon Lockhart, produced by Primitive Film / United Kingdom and Lockhart Studio/ United States
 
The laureate will receive from Air France 2 tickets for a long-haul flight.

The Award endowed by Commune Image goes to:

LA VIE DES HOMMES INFÂMES
by Marianne Pistone & Gilles Deroo, produced by Shellac Sud / France
 
This prize will allow 8 weeks use of editing facilities to the selected project.

The Award endowed by Camargo Foundation goes to:

KRAKATOA
by Carlos Casas, produced by AMI / United Kingdom and Etnograf / Poland

This prize will allow a residency of 4 to 8 weeks.

The Award endowed by Casa de Velázquez increased by a partnership with the School of Cinema and Audiovisual of the Community of Madrid goes to :

THE GODDAMN PARTICLE
by Mili Pecherer

This new prize will allow a residency of 2 months.

In this framework, ECAM, School of Cinematography and Audiovisual of the Community of Madrid, will make its filming and editing equipment available to the winner as part of its OPEN ECAM program.

The Award endowed by Kodak - Silverway goes to :

A PORTRAIT
by Sofia Bohdanowicz, produced by Cinestación / Chili and MDFF / Canada

The laureate will obtain film reels offered by Kodak and their development by Silverway Paris.

The Award endowed by Mactari goes to :

XIAO LI
by Maya Kosa & Sérgio da Costa, produced by Alina Film / Switzerland and O Som e a Fúria / Portugal

This award will provide a sound editing and/or sound mix studio, without a technician, to the selected project.

The Award endowed by Micro Climat Studios goes to :

OLLIN BLOOD
by Elise Florenty & Marcel Türkowsky
 
The post-production company will offer services (image editing, sound editing, sound mix, color grading, conforming) to be chosen by the winner.

The Award endowed by Sublimages goes to :

DER DSCHUNGEL (THE JUNGLE)
by Matthias Huser, produced by 8Horses / Switzerland
 
The subtitling company Sublimages offers the adaptation and translation of the awarded project in one of the 3 languages of their choice: French, English, Spanish.

The Award endowed by Vidéo de Poche goes to :

WABIK (Tracking Satyrs)
by MML Collective: Gilles Lepore, Michal Madracki & Maciej Madracki/ Poland
 
The post-production company Vidéo de Poche will offer a DCP of the film. It will also offer a special discount for the DCP creation to all the selected projects.

FIDLab is supported by the CNC, the City of Marseille, Région Sud Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, the General Council of Bouches-du-Rhône, the Ministry of Culture, PROCIREP, SCAM, Air France KLM.

The Award Ceremony was held virtually with the project's holders, the award partners and Jean-Pierre Rehm, Head of FIDMarseille, Fabienne Moris, Head of FIDLab.

Following the success of this twelfth edition, the FIDLab organizers are looking forward to meeting you in 2021!

$195,000 in Grants Awarded to Seven Narrative Feature Projects in Various Stages of Production

SFFILM, in partnership with the Kenneth Rainin Foundation, announced today the projects that will receive a total of $195,000 in funding in the latest round of SFFILM Rainin Grants. Seven filmmaking teams were granted funding to support the next stage of their creative process, from screenwriting to post-production. SFFILM Rainin Grants are awarded twice annually to filmmakers whose narrative feature films will have significant economic or professional impact on the Bay Area filmmaking community and/or meaningfully explore pressing social issues.

The next application period for SFFILM Rainin Grants opens October 5; for more information visit sffilm.org/makers.
 
SFFILM, in partnership with the Kenneth Rainin Foundation, is the largest granting body for independent narrative feature films in the United States. The SFFILM Rainin Grant program has awarded over $5 million to more than 100 projects since its inception, including Channing Godfrey Peoples’ Miss Juneteenth, which premiered to great acclaim at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival prior to its online release last month; Joe Talbot’s The Last Black Man in San Francisco, which won a record number of juried prizes at Sundance 2019 and was released in theaters nationwide by A24; Nijla Mu’min’s Jinn, which won a Special Jury Award at SXSW 2018 following its premiere there; Boots Riley’s indie breakthrough Sorry to Bother You, which had a successful release last summer through Annapurna Pictures before winning an Indie Spirit Award for Best First Feature; Reinaldo Marcus Green’s Monsters and Men, which won a Special Jury Prize at Sundance 2018; Short Term 12, Destin Cretton’s sophomore feature which won both the Narrative Grand Jury Award and Audience Award at SXSW 2013; Ryan Coogler’s debut feature Fruitvale Station, which won the 2014 Film Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature, the Un Certain Regard Avenir Prize at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, and both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award in the narrative category at Sundance 2013; and Ben Zeitlin’s debut phenomenon Beasts of the Southern Wild, which won Sundance's Grand Jury Prize and Cannes' Camera d'Or in 2012 and earned four Academy Award nominations (including Best Picture).

The panelists who reviewed the finalists’ submissions are Sofia Alicastro, SFFILM Artist Development Manager: Filmmaker Programs; Sophie Gunther, SFFILM Artist Development Manager: Film Funds; Anne Lai, SFFILM Executive Director; Angela Lee, Associate Director, Artist Development, Film Independent; Shelley Trott, Director, Arts Strategy& Ventures, Kenneth Rainin Foundation.
 
The panel noted in a statement: “We were struck by this group of remarkable storytellers, diverse in every sense of the word, whose narratives grapple with issues as personal as sibling dynamics and as broad as global political movements. This particular slate of films demonstrated an adept exploration of identity from unique points of view and impressed us through their clear articulation of passion and thoughtfulness. We are excited to work with this interesting group of makers and are thrilled that this round of grants is able to support both the projects and the artists behind them.”

International Competition Award

The 39th Istanbul Film Festival, organised by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV)with the support of Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism, announced the winners of the National Competition and National Short Film Competition at the ceremony held at Sabancı University Sakıp Sabancı Museum (SSM), on Tuesday evening, 28 July. 11 feature and 12 short films vied in the competitions.

Presented by the director of the festival Kerem Ayan, the 39th Istanbul Film Festival’s Award Ceremony was held in cooperation with Sabancı UniversitySakıp Sabancı Museum (SSM) and saw the announcement of the official awards of the National Competition and National Short Film Competition, as well as the Seyfi Teoman Best Debut Film Prize, and FIPRESCI Awards.

Both competitions were held within the Turkish Cinema section of the festival, organised under the sponsorship of Anadolu Efes for the 31st time.

The competition films were screened between 17-27 July at the open-air theatre set up on the terrace of the Sabancı University Sakıp Sabancı Museum, and online screenings were also held on filmonline.iksv.org during this period.

The delayed international screenings of the 39th Istanbul Film Festival will be held between 9-20 October. The programme of the festival, which will be held conjoined with Filmekimi, will be announced on the social media outlets and the website of the festival in due time.

National Competition

11films produced in the 2019-20 season vied for the Golden Tulip in the National Competition of the 39th Istanbul Film Festival. The jury evaluating the films in the National Competition was headed by director Mahmut Fazıl Coşkun. Fellow jury members are producer Sevil Demirci, actor Berk Hakman, cinematographer Deniz Eyüboğlu Aydın, and writer Hakan Bıçakçı.

The National Competition Jury distributed awards in 9 categories: Golden Tulip Best Film, Best Director, Special Prize of the Jury, Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematographer, Best Editing, and Best Original Music.

The Golden Tulip for Best Film in the National Competition was awarded to Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That, directed by Ümit Ünal for“its plainness, effortless conveying of its story without romanticising its protagonists or environment; its comprehensive, external as well as internal perspective, and for making us believe its story more and more at each step.” Supported by a 200.000 TL monetary prize, the award was presented by jury president, director Mahmut Fazıl Coşkun.

The Special Jury Prize in memory of Onat Kutlar was given to Bina / The Antenna directed by Orçun Behram for “being an engaging body horror film–rare in our cinema–with its atmosphere and sound design as well as its plot, and a dystopic genre film that succeeds to include a myriad of references to present day and history of film while avoiding being didactic.” The award was presented by actor Berk Hakman. The Special Jury Prize is supported with a 50,000 TL monetary award.

Ercan Kesal won the Best DirectorAward for his film Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him. The award was announced by writer Hakan Bıçakçı, and Tuğrul Ağırbaş, the General Manager of Anadolu Efes Turkey, presented the award. The Golden Tulip for Best Director is supported by the Turkish Cinema Sponsor Anadolu Efes with a monetary award of 50,000 TL.

Selen Uçer & Ece Dizdar won the Best Actress Award for their roles in Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That. The award was presented by renowned film and stage actor Metin Akpınar. The winner of the Best ActressAward receives 10,000 TL.

The Best Actor Award was given to Fatih Al for his role in Körleşme / Going Blind. The award was presented by producer Sevil Demirci. The Best Actor Award is supported with a 10,000 TL monetary award.

The Best Screenplay Award in the National Competition was given to Ümit Ünal for the film Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That. Founder of Axolotl, director Kaan Müjdeci presented the award. The Best Screenplay Award is supported with 10,000 TL presented by Axolotl.

The Best Cinematographer Award in the National Competition was given to Engin Özkaya for the film Bina / The Antenna. Cinematographer Deniz Eyüboğlu Aydın presented the award.

The Best Editing Award in the National Competition was given to Ali Aga for his work in the film Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him. The award was presented by actor Özgür Emre Yıldırım.

The Best Original Music Award in the National Competition went to Can Demirci for the film Bina / The Antenna. The award was presented by the founder of Lu Records Ahmet Kenan Bilgiç. The Best Original Music Award is supported by Lu Records with 5,000 TL.

National Short Film Competition

The National Short Film Competition is spearheaded with the objectives of encouraging short film making, supporting the development in this field, and bringing together the audience and outstanding short films. The jury, composed of director Konstantina Kotzamani, director Gökalp Gönen, and actor Boran Kuzum, chose the Best Short Film from among 12 films to receive the monetary award of 5,000 TL granted by Anadolu Efes.

The jury decided to award Siyah Güneş / Black Sundirected by Arda Çiltepe with the Best Short Film Award: “An eternal circle joining death, dead times, and dreams within the fragmented voyage of its protagonist in an enigmatic atmosphere. A mysterious film that with its cinematic language succeeds to encapsulate coasts and the quotidian beneath an eclipse. The Best Short Film Award goes to “Siyah Güneş / Black Sun”, which shines like a new sun in Turkish cinema.” Director Gökalp Gönen presented the award.

The jury decided to award a Special Mention to Ahtapot / Octopus, directed by Engin Erden. The award was presented by actor Boran Kuzum: “As young artists of the jury who acknowledge that resources are limited to tell a story in this region, we would like to present a special mention to a director and his crew, in hopes that it will be a reason for them to tell more stories to which we are looking forward: for making us all watch with a sweet smile and telling in an enchanting manner the atmosphere of a summer vacation and summer town through two young friends, “Ahtapot / Octopus” by Engin Erden.”

Seyfi Teoman Best Debut Film Prize

The Istanbul Film Festival presents the Seyfi Teoman Best Debut Film Prize in memoriam director and producer Seyfi Teoman, who passed away in 2012. The jury comprised of director Emine Emel Balcı, actor Özgür Emre Yıldırım, and musician Ahmet K. Bilgiç.

Six debut fiction feature films by filmmakers from Turkey and screened in the festival’s “Turkish Cinema” section were nominated for the prize.

Bina / The Antenna directed by Orçun Behram won the Seyfi Teoman Best Debut Film Prize which is supported with a monetary award of 30,000 TL granted by C M Y L M Z Fikirsanat. The jury selected the film “For its coherent atmosphere created in accordance with all cinematic elements, and its bold narrative. “Bina / The Antenna” directed by Orçun Behram, puts forth an impressive effort in genre filmmaking, and evokes wonder as to his future work.”

FIPRESCI Award

The International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) presented an award within the National Competition. The FIPRESCI Jury was headed by Bojidar Manov from Bulgaria, and includes Ofer Liebergall from Israel, and Aylin Sayın Gönenç from Turkey.

The winner of the FIPRESCI Award is:

Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him directed by Ercan Kesal in the National Competition for “conveying the mainstream political stage onto the screen in a plain but effective manner, revealing the fragility of ruling power and emphasising that these fragile relations are committed to money, organisations that are not secular or modern, and traditions. It underlines the social class aspect of the issue all the while depicting the frailty of the politically ambitious individual.”

The awards were announced by film critic and FIPRESCI representative Esin Küçüktepepınar, an advisor to the festival.

International screenings to be held between 9-20 October

As the National Competition and National Short Film Competition Award Ceremony ends, the films selected for the National Documentary Competition to be held in October as part of the 39th edition of the Istanbul Film Festival were also announced. The films in the National Documentary Competition section are:

•           Göbeklitepe Sakinleri / Residents of Göbeklitepe by Sedat Benek

•           Ah Gözel İstanbul / Invisible to the Eye by Zeynep Dadak

•           Kadınlar Ülkesi / Women's Country by Şirin Bahar Demirel

•           Kuyudaki Taş / The Stone in the Well by Gökçin Dokumacı

•           Miss Holokost Survivor / The Pageant by Eytan İpeker

•           Mimaroğlu / Mimaroğlu: The Robinson of Manhattan Island by Serdar Kökçeoğlu

•           Muhammed Ali by Nursen Çetin Köreken, Ümit Köreken

•           Asfaltın Altında Dereler Var! / Under The Road, The River! by Yasin Semiz

•           Tenere by Hasan Söylemez

•           Atık Sözlüğü: Tanımların ve İmajların Geri Dönüşümü / Dictionary of Waste: Recycling Definitions and Images by Alper Şen

•           Maddenin Halleri / Phases of Matter by Deniz Tortum

The Best Documentary Award in the National Documentary Competition is supported by a monetary award of 10,000 TL.

The documentary “İyi ki Yapmışım / Glad I did it!” was screened following the award ceremony

The world premiere of the documentary İyi ki Yapmışım / Glad I did it!, a biopic on renowned film and stage actor Metin Akpınar, directed by Selçuk Metin, was held following the award ceremony with the participation of Akpınar, director Selçuk Metin, screenwriter Zeynep Miraç, director of photography Uğur İçbak and composer Murat Evgin.

Glad I did it! will be screened for the general public in October out of competition during the festival as part of the National Documentary Competition section.

39TH ISTANBUL FILM FESTIVAL AWARDS

National Competition

• Golden Tulip Best Film – Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That / Ümit Ünal

• Best Director – Ercan Kesal (Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him)

• Special Jury Prize – in memory of Onat Kutlar: Bina / The Antenna / Orçun Behram

• Best Screenplay– Ümit Ünal (Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That)
   
• Best Actress– Selen Uçer & Ece Dizdar (Aşk, Büyü, vs. / Love, Spells and All That)

• Best Actor – Fatih Al (Körleşme / Going Blind)

• Best Cinematographer– Engin Özkaya (Bina / The Antenna)
   

• Best Editing – Ali Aga (Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him)
   

• Best Original Music – Can Demirci (Bina / The Antenna)
   

National Short Film Competition

• Best Short Film –Siyah Güneş / Black Sun / Arda Çiltepe

• Special Mention– Ahtapot / The Octopus / Engin Erden

Seyfi Teoman Best Debut Film Award

• Best Debut Film – Bina / The Antenna / Orçun Behram

FIPRESCI Awards

• National Competition – Nasipse Adayız / You Know Him / Ercan Kesal

Eight festival evenings, over 30 film titles, a rich accompanying program. In short, that’s how the fifth edition of the Burgas International Film Festival took place.

The jury consisting of Rushen Vidinliev, Alexander Stanishev, Ferenz Török, Stefan Bohun awarded the prize “Danny Lerner” in the amount of 10, 000 euros in studio services from Nu Boyana Film Studios to the film “Los Lobos”/ Los Lobos movie, directed by Samuel Kishi. A special mention was given to the Portugese film “Mosquito” directed by Joao Nuño Pinto. The most votes for the audience award received “You will die at 20” directed by Amjat Abu Alala from Sudan.

For the best short film the jury - Andrea Banda Banda, Denis Alkaniz and Tony Minasian, chose “Night Shift”, directed by Eddy Schwartz and Yordan Petkov.

Special award was given to the following movies:

“Killer Jenny”, directed by Bela Lukac - for original screenplay (Andreas Schissler);
“So close away”, directed by Dimitris Georgiev- for cinematography (Damyan Dimitrov);
“Afloat” - directed by Eve de Chems Brouwer for the cast (Garance Eltejaye, Benjamin Siksou).

The winner of the festival will get their show produced for a week run by The ONE Festival here in New York City. Keep an eye out for more information on when you can catch the show in the near future!

We here at The ONE Festival are so proud of the artists who came together to create in a new way for this years festival and thankful to our audience from all over the world who tuned into this years festival.

We are accepting submissions for our 16th Annual Festival in 2021. So if you have a solo show you would like to submit, visit our website at www.theONEfestival.com

The Impact DOCS Awards goal is to discover and honor the achievements of filmmakers who produce high quality documentaries. Impact DOCS puts filmmakers first and provides a direct opportunity for recognition and publicity for high quality productions. It is international in scope and has granted awards to producers in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Ecuador, France, Germany, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Korea, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Nepal, Nigeria, Norway, Palestine, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United Republic of Tanzania, and the United States.

~ Best of Show ~ 

The Green Book: Guide to Freedom – Yoruba Richen, Smithsonian Channel

Yoruba Richen (USA), The Green Book: Guide to Freedom, Doc Feature – Emmy-nominee Richen’s insightful doc tells the unknown story of the emergence of the black middle class and their road trips from the 1930’s to the 1960’s – trips that were often perilous – arriving where they were unwelcome, threatened and harmed. To counteract this, Victor Green, a black postal carrier from Harlem, published a book that was part travel guide and part survival guide. It was called The Negro Motorist Green Book, and it helped African-Americans navigate safe passage across America. Meticulously researched and presented, it explores some of the segregated nation’s safe havens and notorious “sundown towns”. It gives witness not only to stories of struggle and indignity but also opportunity and triumph. It is a generous, complex exploration of the book’s practical function and cultural legacy. It illuminates the places where history was made, the ubiquity of black entrepreneurship and biographies of brave people fighting against the times. With commentary from important figures, a glimpse into the few businesses that remain today and the historical preservation efforts that are underway to protect some of them. Profound and poignant offering a wider lens on American history. A Smithsonian Channel production.

 ~ Outstanding Achievement Documentary Short ~

Claire – Nick Reed and Ryan Azevedo

Nick Reed and Ryan Azevedo (USA), Claire, Doc Short – Oscar-winner Reed and Azevedo bring to life the story of Claire Wineland who inspired millions of people through her popular YouTube channel, where she chronicled her battle with cystic fibrosis and helped “dignify people who are sick.” Told through insightful interviews and Claire’s footage, this tightly crafted, engaging and emotionally powerful doc successfully delivers on it’s intention to share Claire’s humanity, wisdom and passion for living your best life. Says Reed, “Claire taught us to not run from the terrifying parts of life and to live a life that you are proud of. My words cannot do justice to her wisdom, but she may inspire you to take one small step towards a more profound, fulfilled life. A Youtube Channel original.

 ~ Outstanding Achievement Documentary Feature ~

Alexandre the Fool / Alexander Odyssey -  Pedro Pires

Pedro Pires (Canada), Alexandre the Fool / Alexander Odyssey, Doc Feature – Emmy and Canadian Screen Award winner Pires – delivers a sensationally unique doc exploring the journey of a man with schizophrenia, Alex, who seeks his place in the world by pursuing an artistic journey and a quest for love that pushes him beyond his usual emotional boundaries. Skillfully combining journalistic documentation with artistic creation, stunning, exceptionally cinematic filming and imaginative edits – it reveals Pires’s desire to situate the subject in the present and the concrete. It is a film that is all at once an intimate, disturbing and sublime odyssey but unquestionably filmed with respect for Alex’s journey.

 ~ Award of Excellence Special Mention ~

Gillian Mosely (United Kingdom), The Tinderbox, Doc Feature- BAFTA-winner Mosely delivers an extraordinary, balanced and heart-wrenching examination of the Isreali-Palestinian conflict – never before presented. Ancient and recent history, geopolitical issues, psychology and a deeply personal journey challenge what we think we knew. Producers Emmy-winning Andre Singer, and Emmy-nominated Richard Melman.

Horacio Alcalá (Spain), My Kingdom Come, Doc Feature – The story of Simón González – the thirteen-time Spanish kickboxing world champion whose career tragically ended by fall that left him in a wheelchair. A beautiful ode to  life, love and service told though his truth and kindness. Creative construction, excellent technical craft, stirring soundtrack and stunning cinematography by David Palacios. Producer Raquel Menor.

Jethro Waters (USA), F/11 and Be There, Doc Feature – A commentary on civil rights, race, social justice, and art, told through the lens of legendary photographer Burk Uzzle. Waters deftly matched the aesthetic of Uzzle’s work resulting in a creatively stylized and emotionally stirring doc – carried by an exceptional fresh soundtrack by acclaimed musicians Natalie Prass and Eric Slick. A NY Times Critic pick.

Shane Vermooten (South Africa), Kusasa, Doc Feature – Under the guidance of spirited and heartful coaches – a young football team from a shanty town in South Africa goes on the adventure of a lifetime to Sweden – to play in the largest youth football tournament. A wildly inspirational character driven journey, with pitch-perfect pacing and outstanding audio and lively cinematography. Producer Vlokkie Gordon.

Oliver Goetzl (Germany), Mt Suswa, Life in a Volcano, Doc Feature – Goetzl brings his exceptional wildlife filmmaking talents to Mt Suswa in Kenya – the only place in the world where baboons roost in caves. A rare and mysterious place – showcasing an abundance of wildlife and previously unseen behaviors. A well-crafted script, exceptional footage, entertaining narration and beautiful cinematography. Aired NDR.

Alan Martin, Linda Goldman and David Royle (USA), Smithsonian Time Capsule: Beyond Stonewall, Doc Feature – Veteran director Martin delivers an impactful doc highlighting the history and the attitudes and activism around LGBTQ rights that came about after the Stonewall riots. Combines well researched information with heart-warming personal stories and the pivotal role the Smithsonian is playing in preserving important pieces of culture and history.

Jon Bowermaster (USA), A Living River, Doc Short – A tightly and deftly directed doc from award-winning filmmaker Bowermaster of the Hudson River and the dedicated people and organizations fighting to revitalize it defying decades of oppression and using the lessons of the past as an ecosystem to protect the future. Beautiful cinematography, poignant interviews and inspiring footage of youth programs.

Jane Bardon (Australia), Songlines: Solutions to Climate Change, Doc Short – Walkley Award winner Investigative journalist Bardon delivers a unique take on climate change – turning to the wisdom of Australia’s indigenous peoples, bringing 60,000 years of caring for the country to combat environmental destruction…. and highlight the deeper problems humanity is facing.  ABC News Australia.

David Shilale (USA), Worcester 6: Heroes Remembered, Doc Short – A touching tribute to six brave men, their families and a fire department that will never forget the city’s most tragic incident. Marking the 20^th anniversary, it celebrates their memory through touching interviews, their children who are now firefighters and the philanthropic efforts of Denis Leary to prevent future tragedies in his beloved hometown.

 ~ Award of Excellence ~ 

Adam Fischer (USA), Murder in Mobile, Documentary Short
Alexander Craven (USA), In the Same Direction: Jeff Pifher & Socrates’ Trial, Documentary Short
Alexander Lind and Jakob Jakobsen (Denmark), The Remandee, Documentary Feature
Alyscia Cunningham (USA), I Am More Than My Hair, Documentary Short
Amel Tresnjic (Australia), Talk For Life: English as an Additional Language, Documentary Feature
Anna Vinokur (Russia), Dance for it, Documentary Feature, Women Filmmakers
Anthony Sarracco (Canada), TENDENZA, Documentary Feature
Bruno Colella (Italy), Napoli Eden, Documentary Feature, Viewer Impact: Motivational / Inspirational
Cam Cowan (USA), OPEKA, Documentary Feature
Cheryl Jacobs Crim (USA), RESISTERHOOD, Documentary Feature
David Arond (USA), The One and Only Jewish Miss America, Documentary Feature
David Barnhart (USA), Flint: The Poisoning of an American City, Documentary Feature
Gareth Gwyn (USA), Something to Give, Documentary Short
Gillian Mosely (United Kingdom), The Tinderbox, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery, History / Biographical
J Mitchell Johnson (Russia / USA), Saving North – A Russian American Odyssey, Documentary Feature
James William Theres (USA), The SixTripleEight, Documentary Feature
Jane Bardon (Australia), Songlines: Solutions to Climate Change, Native American / Aboriginal Peoples
Jim Bernfield (USA), Me To Play, Documentary Feature
Julio Méndez (USA), God is not to blame, Documentary Short
Kamaran Karym (USA), Don’t Forget Them, Viewer Impact: Motivational / Inspirational
Keren Perlmutter (USA), Determined: The Story of Holocaust Survivor Avraham Perlmutter, Original Score (composed by Steven Chesne)
Kevin Flannagan, Streetlight Movies (USA), Love Goes Public, Documentary Feature
Laurens Grant, Charles Poe and David Royle (USA), Black in Space: Breaking the Color Barrier, Documentary Feature
Melonie Kastman and Igor Kovalik (USA), FIGHTING FOR SURVIVORS, Documentary Short
Michael Murphy (USA), Up From The Streets- New Orleans: A City of Music, Documentary Feature
Mirra Bank (USA), No Fear No Favor, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
N.Shanmuga Sundaram and Nilanjan Neil Lahiri (Singapore), GRIT, Documentary Feature
Roman Gerodimos (United Kingdom), Deterrence, Documentary Feature
Richard Yelland (USA), Seeding Change: The Power of Conscious Commerce, Use of Film / Video for Social Change, Documentary Feature
Selket Kaufman (USA), A Voice for Whales, Documentary Short
Shannon Robinson (Australia), Ofeina’o Lesieli, Documentary Short
Shareable (USA), The Response: How Puerto Ricans are Restoring Power to the People, Documentary Short
Toni Escandell  and Jordi Escandell (Spain), MENORCA, BIOSPHERE RESERVE, Documentary Feature

 ~ Award of Merit Special Mention ~

Amanda Rodriguez (USA), Stories Happen in Forests, Documentary Short
Amber Ostergaard (USA), Swipe Left: The Age of Disposable Relationships, Documentary Short (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student), Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising (Student)
Chantal Potter (USA), Balloon Man, Documentary Feature
Jockey Club Water Initiative on Sustainability and Engagement (JC-WISE) Project, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong), The Hidden Costs of Water, Documentary Short, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
John Hart (Australia), 9 in 10 – Loss and Suicide in Aboriginal Australia, Documentary Feature
Kamaran Karym (USA), Don’t Forget Them, Documentary Feature
Kate Siegenthaler (USA), Land of Lights and Shadows, Documentary Feature
Kaufmann Productions Pty Ltd (Australia), Visible Farmer, Documentary Short
Kern Konwiser (USA), Still A Black Star, Documentary Feature, Asian, Use of Film / Video for Social Change, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Mirra Bank (USA), No Fear No Favor, Documentary Feature, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery
Paul Cooke (United Kingdom), The Art of Fremantle Prison, Documentary Short
Simla Sooboodoo, Indresh Singh and Rishabh Nayan (Australia / India), Dehlight, Documentary Short
Taka Octz (Japan), Living in the Age of Miracles, Documentary Feature
Trickster Cultural Center (USA), Connecting Our Generations: Voices of Native Veterans, Documentary Short

 ~ Award of Merit ~

Adam Kavanagh (Australia), God of Hope, Documentary Short
Austin Sanchez (USA), Unfit to Stand, Documentary Short (Student)
Brandon Bjorkman (USA), Return to Nam, Documentary Feature
Bruce Hyer (USA), Mountains + Movies, Documentary Feature
Cameron Barrett (USA), The Fire Triangle, Documentary Short, Women Filmmakers
Chris Temple, Optimist (USA), The Undocumented Lawyer, Documentary Short, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Clare Staples and Jamie Baldanza (USA), Pass The Safe Act: The Story of Louisa, Star, and Baby Skye, Documentary Short
Crystal Nichols (USA), The Monument, Documentary Short (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Cyan Meeksv (USA), Phainesthai, Documentary Short
Damien Donnelly (Ireland), Homo Sapiens in Space, Documentary Short, Viewer Impact: Entertainment Value
Daniel Catullo (USA), Breathe, Nolan, Breathe, Documentary Short
Davelle Barnes (USA), Ebony War Porn, Documentary Short
David Lee Morea (USA), We Are Mermaids, Documentary Feature
David Rives (USA), God’s Living Treasures Volume 2 – Animals of Alaska, Documentary Feature
Donnie Dodge (USA), All the King’s Men- 1910 Cornhusker Football, Narration / Voice-Over Talent (Donnie Dodge)
Eda Benjakul (USA), Home Restaurant, Documentary Short, Public Service Film, Women Filmmakers, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Gabrielle Blackwood (Jamaica), Unbroken, Documentary Short
George Wingard (USA), We Came A Long Way By Faith:  Catholic Hill and St. James the Greater Catholic Church, Documentary Feature

Global Health Reporting Center, Emma Watts (USA), A Diary From The Frontline – Dr. Davey Smith, Documentary Short, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Global Health Reporting Center, Emma Watts (USA), A Diary From The Frontline, Documentary Short, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Holistic Health Community (USA), Holistic Health Community: an emerging healthcare model based on the Economics of Generosity, Documentary Short
Hope Ballard (USA), Thoughts & Prayers, Documentary Short
James Muir (New Zealand), A Broken Earth, Documentary Short
Jamie Baldanza (USA), Wild Lands Wild Horses, Documentary Feature
Jane Bahk, Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley (USA), Being Kinder to Yourself, Documentary Short, Health / Medicine / Science, Concept, Creativity / Originality
Jason Killian Meath (USA), CPAC: The World is Watching, Documentary Short
Javan K. Bernakevitch (Canada), Facing Fire: Building Resiliency to Wildfire, Documentary Short, Narration / Voice-Over Talent (Javan K Bernakevitch)
Jella Bethmann (Denmark), Selfie Rebels, Documentary Feature, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Joaquín Ramón Herrera, LeFrancis and Mazet Studios (USA), Pipetown, USA, Documentary Feature
Kassia Binkowski and AJ Oscarson (USA), Human Desire, Documentary Short
Kelly Stoner (Australia), Truth Telling, Documentary Short
Kelwin Kwan (Hong Kong), Choi Chang Sau’s Present to the Qin Makers of the 22nd Century, Documentary Feature
Keren Perlmutter (USA), Determined: The Story of Holocaust Survivor Avraham Perlmutter, History / Biographical
lafi Abood (United Arab Emirates), Hummus A story of appropriation, Documentary Feature
Leo Santos (Brazil), COORDINATES, Documentary Short, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Lucie Bakala and Jiri Bakala, Ascent Films inc (Canada), The Biggest Wish, Documentary Feature, Women Filmmakers, Cinematography
Maggie Burnette Stogner (USA), Unbreathable: The Fight for Healthy Air, Documentary Short, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising, Health / Medicine / Science
Marc Grandsard (France), The Visit, History / Biographical
Marina Petrovskaia (USA), For Fear of Kofi, Documentary Feature
Marissa Chanelle McDonald, Ice Storm Entertainment Group (USA), GOD and the MASTER MAGICIAN The Un-Synonymous Connection, African American, Documentary Feature, Women Filmmakers
Matt Rice (USA), The Ballad of John Henry, Documentary Feature
Melinda Boyer (USA), Beyond The Secret – The Awakening, Documentary Feature
Michael Reynolds (USA), Under the Great Oak, History / Biographical
Michele Citoni (Italy), 5×7, Documentary Short
Michi Marosszeky, Woven Threads (Australia), Woven Threads – Olive, Documentary Short, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Min-gyeong Jo (Korea ), ARROWHEAD HILL, THE 66 YEARS FROZEN IN TIME, Documentary Short
Mirella Martinelli (USA), Frenemies, Documentary Feature
Monika Koeck (United Kingdom), Coronavirus Pandemic: Making Safer Emergency Hospitals, Documentary Short
Mykhailo Bogdanov (USA), WHAT GOD WANTS, Documentary Short
Nicholas Jones (United Kingdom), A Greenlander, Documentary Short
Ozlem Ayse Ozgur (USA), Taste Bud Memories, Documentary Short
Patryk Wezowski and Kasia Wezowski (Belgium), Impact, Documentary Feature, Direction
Rakel Gardarsdottir and Ágústa M. Olafsdottir (Iceland), UseLess, Documentary Feature
Rick Walters (USA), The River, Documentary Feature
Sarah Sabatke (USA), Thoughts and Prayers, Documentary Short (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Stephanie Castelete-Tyrrell, Four Wheel Drive Productions (United Kingdom), Living In Fear, Documentary Feature
Stephen Bentley (USA), The 40-Year Bake Sale, Documentary Short
Stephen James (USA), Conversations with Solomon Episode 5 Bigotry, Documentary Short
Steve Snyder and Clayton Snyder (USA), SHOT DOWN: Howard Snyder and the B-17 Susan Ruth, Documentary Short
Sufian Abulohom (USA), Immigrant at Home, Documentary Short, Direction
Susan Hackley (USA), Veteran Children: When Parents Go To War, Documentary Short
Timothy Wolfer (USA), The Right Girls, Documentary Feature
Tina Preschitz (Spain), Transhumance – Routes of a disappearing life, Documentary Feature
Yakima Waner (South Africa), The Harvest, Documentary Feature
Yolonda Johnson-Young (USA), Finding Elijah, Documentary Short, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Yu Hao Ting, Deep Waters Digital Support INC (Taiwan), The Change in Education, Documentary Short, Script / Writer
Zac Miller (USA), Trailblazers: The Untold Stories of Six Women Engineers, Documentary Short

~ Award of Recognition ~

A. Buchanan (USA), The Adventures of Kehaulani, Documentary Short, Women Filmmakers
Amin Maher (Germany), Letter to my mother, Documentary Short
Anand Acts (Singapore), BLACK BOX, Documentary Short
Andre Menras (France), Vietnam, a cry from within, Documentary Feature
Aswin Ramachandran (USA), Wolf & Duce, Documentary Short
Benjamin Connell (USA), Wings of Angels, Documentary Short
Brian Walsh (Australia), Men and Love, Documentary Short
Carla Sacco (Canada), A Kind Era, Documentary Short
Charles and Mary Love (USA), The Dream Revisited, Civil Rights in Perspective, Documentary Short
Connor Moran amd Joel Primus (Canada), Raising Global Citizens, Documentary Feature
Dale Jakubowski (USA), Springtime Odyssey, Documentary Feature
Diogo Varela Silva, Hot Chilli Films (Portugal), Zé Pedro Rock n Roll, Documentary Feature
Donnie Dodge (USA), All the King’s Men- 1910 Cornhusker Football, Documentary Feature
Eleanor Goldfield (USA), Hard Road of Hope, Documentary Feature
Giorgio Citarella II (USA), Hotlines: Now More Than Ever, Documentary Short (Student)
Hadasah Ingrid Cornell (USA), Why Kap Kneeled, African American
James Curry (USA), masterjam, Documentary Feature
Japna Tulsi (India), Windfall of Grace, Documentary Feature
Jenn Lindsay (Italy), Quarantined Faith: Rome, Religion and Coronavirus, Documentary Short
Joel Van der Molen (United Kingdom), The Magnificence of You, Documentary Short
John Pings (USA), Oregon Water Colors, Cinematography
Jonathan Smith (USA), Remembering Elwood Higginbottom, Documentary Short
Joshua S. Bischof (USA), Burn With Us, Documentary Feature
Kaye Tuckerman (USA), The Last Queen, Documentary Short
Keren Perlmutter (USA), Determined: The Story of Holocaust Survivor Avraham Perlmutter, Documentary Feature
Leah Manasseh (Lebanon), I Bleed, Documentary Feature (Student)
Leonard Smith III (USA), A Place Called Desire, Documentary Feature
Luc Bellon (France), Lyari – Survival of the Fringes, Documentary Feature
Lucy Hansard (United Kingdom), Your Body Can, Documentary Short
Marc Grandsard (France), The Visit, Documentary Feature, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery
Mario Abbade (Brazil), Ivan, The TerrirBle, Documentary Feature, Direction
Marvin (Toby) Yarbrough and Andrew Latuo (USA), The Quiet Healing, Documentary Feature
Michael Reynolds (USA), Under the Great Oak, Documentary Feature
Olivier Hespel (France), SALT, Documentary Feature
Paul Edward Foulkes and Aaron Yamashita (Japan), HIV SAVED MY LIFE, Documentary Feature
Phil Garrison (USA), Stacy, Documentary Short
Rahsaan Jones (USA), Homeland Hero, Documentary Short
Renee Schwartz (USA), River Woman, Documentary Short
Sandy Holman (USA), The Cost of Darkness, Documentary Feature (Student)
Shihyun Wang (USA), Win the Invisible War – WuHan Virus, Documentary Short
Sikeith Walker (USA), Undefeated Hip-Hop Dance Documentary, Documentary Short
Snehasish Sarkar (India), One for the Other, Documentary Short, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising, Health / Medicine / Science
Sophie Francey (USA), Becoming _________, Documentary Short (Student)
Vedavyasa N K (India), Retina:Light sensitive Layer, Diagnostic Equipment, Common Diseases, Documentary Short
Yu Hao Ting, Deep Waters Digital Support INC (Taiwan), The Change in Education, Original Score (Pasibutbut)

Polish Days – the most important industry event of New Horizons IFF, co-organized by the Polish Film Institute and The Ministry of Culture and National Heritage has just ended.

Over 170 guests from Poland and abroad watched the latest Polish projects in all stages of production, including completed films and fragments of films in postproduction as well as took part in presentations of projects in development online. The best projects were awarded.

Screen International’s Best Pitch Award, which includes the coverage of the lifecycle of the winning project in the Works in Progress showcase, went to Prime Time directed by Jakub Piątek (production: Watchout Studio). Screen International will follow the winning film throughout its production and release phases. 

Balcony Movie. Step into My Frame directed by Paweł Łoziński (Łoziński Production) won Coloroffon Film Postproduction Award (which is covering 50% of postproduction costs worth up to 30.000 PLN, excluding VFX costs).

No Problemo Music decided to award two projects: Balcony Movie. Step into My Frame directed by Paweł Łoziński and Fears by Łukasz Ronduda (produced by Serce) with unlimited access to music catalogue.  

Polish Film Institute Scholarship worth 35.000 PLN for a producer to participate with a project at the EAVE 2021 Producers Workshop was awarded to Anna Stylińska from Harine Films. The award founded by Polish Film Institute covers the full cost of the participation in the workshop programme.

Polish Days is co-organized by the Polish Film Institute and The Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. Event partners are EAVE, Screen International, Coloroffon, No Problemo Music, Wrocław Film Commission, Mazovia Warsaw Film Commission, Łodź Film Commission, Podkarpackie Film Commission, DI Factory.

Media partners include Film Pro, Film New Europe and Film & TV Kamera.

Congratulations to all the filmmakers!

The winners were announced today of the international co-production platform Open Doors Hub and the producer training workshop Open Doors Lab at this year’s edition, Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films.
 
Even in a year beset by the global pandemic, the Locarno Pro initiative Open Doors has continued its three-year cycle (2019-2021), focusing on Southeast Asia (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines) and Mongolia, bringing to the Festival’s international platform a selection of eight full-length projects seeking international co-production partners (Hub) plus nine creative producers (Lab), all from the region involved.
 
Watch a video of the Best of the 2020 edition of Open Doors Hub and Lab.
 
As witnessed by the numerous awards and incentives (full details below) assigned to the best projects and talents from the region, Open Doors and its partners are once again asserting their determination to provide visibility and concrete support for independent filmmaking in the Global South and East in all its diversity.
 
The awards ceremony took place today live on the Festival's website was broadcasted on YouTube. To watch again, go here.

 
Open Doors Hub
The Open Doors jury awarded seven prizes to the following projects from the Open Doors Hub, with the aim of offering better conditions for their development and production:
 
· Open Doors Grant: financed by the Swiss production support fund Visions Sud Est (backed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, SDC) and by the City of Bellinzona.

• Production support (CHF 40’000 CHF) to: ZE by Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir, Mongolia/France
   
• Development support (CHF 14’000 CHF) to: ZSA ZSA ZATURNNAH VS THE AMAZONISTAS OF PLANET X by Avid Liongoren, Philippines/France
   
• Development support (CHF 14’000 CHF) to: INSIDE THE YELLOW COCOON SHELL by An Pham Thien, Vietnam/Singapore/France
   

· Development grant CNC – Centre national du cinéma et de l’image animée (€ 8,000) to: FRUIT GATHERING by Aung Phyoe, Myanmar/France/Czech Republic
 
· ARTE Kino International Prize (€ 6,000) to: OASIS OF NOW by Chee Sum Chia, Malaysia
 
· Open Doors – Sørfond Award to: THIS CITY IS A BATTLEFIELD by Mouly Surya, Indonesia/Singapore/Philippines
The prize consists of an opportunity to attend Sørfond’s forthcoming Pitching from the South event.
 
· Open Doors Award – Moulin d’Andé – CECI to: Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir with the project ZE
A screenwriting residency for an emerging director of full-length films who has participated in Open Doors 2020 (Hub, Lab or Screenings), enabling further development of their project.
 

Open Doors Lab
 
· Open Doors – Rotterdam Lab Award to: Uran Sainbileg, producer, IFI Production, Mongolia
An opportunity to take part in the Rotterdam Lab 2021 training workshop, together with a delegation of emerging producers on the international scene, in collaboration with IFFR Pro.
 
 
Open Doors is organized in partnership with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), and with numerous European and international organizations:
 
ACE Producers, European Audiovisual Entrepreneurs (EAVE), the Winterthur International Short Film Festival, Festival Scope, Produire au Sud/Festival des Trois Continents, SEAFIC (Southeast Asia Fiction Film Lab), AFiS Busan Asian Film School, ACM (Arts Council of Mongolia) and Ulaanbaatar International Film Festival, Autumn Meeting (Vietnam), the Cambodia Film Commission and Bophana Center, Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP, Philippines), J Akatara Film Financing Forum (Indonesia), MEMORY! International Film Heritage Festival (Myanmar).
 

Open Doors Hub and Lab were held online to allow all the selected filmmakers and producers to take part, with the activities taking place from August 6 to 11 during this year’s special edition of the Festival, Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films.
The Open Doors Screenings continue online throughout the Festival and can be watched on demand on the new platform play.locarnofestival.ch. Meanwhile the special season of physical screenings Through the Open Doors is still under way in theaters in Locarno and Muralto, with an anthology of titles as a homage to the initiative’s first eighteen years.

Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films: award winners at the special edition

Two female gazes, stretching from Switzerland to Argentina, have won the Pardi 2020 awards – each worth 70,000 Swiss francs – for productions halted by the COVID-19 crisis. The international jury for The Films After Tomorrow– made up of Nadav Lapid, Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese and Kelly Reichardt – picked out Chocobar, by acclaimed Argentinian filmmaker Lucrecia Martel, a political documentary that takes its cue from the murder in 2000 of land rights activist Javier Chocobar to investigate aspects of colonization and native culture. The jury of the Swiss selection, composed of Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Alina Marazzi and Matías Piñeiro, awarded another female director, Marí Alessandrini, with Zahorí, a Swiss production also set in Argentina, where an unlikely friendship grows on the Patagonian Steppe between a thirteen-year-old girl of Ticino origin and an old Mapuche man.
 
In the international selection the Campari Award, a special jury prize worth 50,000 Swiss francs, went to the film Selvajaria (Savagery) by Miguel Gomes, freely adapted from the novel Rebellion in the Backlands by Euclides da Cunha, an account of the late 19^th century military campaign of the newly-formed Brazilian Republic against the tiny settlement of Canudos. The Swatch Award for the most innovative project (30,000 Swiss francs) was won by De Humani Corporis Fabrica (The Fabric of the Human Body) by Verena Paravel and Lucien-Castaing Taylor, a political and philosophical documentary on the delicate issues of bioethics raised by new technologies in medicine. Among the projects in the Swiss selection, the SRG SSR Award, consisting in a TV advertising campaign worth 100,000 Swiss francs, was assigned to LUX, a documentary about the Swiss army by young filmmakers Raphaël Dubach and Mateo Ybarra.
The list above comprises the verdict for the flagship section of this special edition of the Locarno Film Festival, conceived as a way of confronting the challenges of the cinema industry imposed by the global pandemic, and now coming to a successful close.
 
The pictures that tell the story of Locarno 2020 are unlike those from any other edition. Gone this year, alas, is the collective embrace of the Piazza Grande and the glamour of international movie stars. At the same time, however, this was the year in which the Festival opened up to a truly global audience with its first ever online programming. It has been a year of solidarity, too, with the projects in The Films After Tomorrow and those which, like Closer to Life, were organized on behalf of independent movie theaters, one of the film industry sectors worst hit in recent months. A year in which the filmmakers of the future took center stage, with the Pardi di domani short films section being followed enthusiastically both online and in theaters – where some of the Swiss directors were able to present their films to the audience physically. The main prizes for the Pardi di domani went to I ran from it and was still in it by Darol Olu Kae in the international competition and to Menschen am Samstag (People on Saturday) by Jonas Ulrich in the Swiss competition.
But this was also a year when the focus on reassessment of the past was equally sharp, with landmark titles in Festival history and the rediscovery of the event’s extensive archives. A year when we could explore or return to the cinemas of the Global South and East, thanks to the Open Doors Screenings– in which for the first time prizes have been awarded by the Cinema&Gioventù youth jury – and Through the Open Doors. Last but by no means least, this was a year when we experienced the joy of going to the movies again: in the Secret Screenings, in the cinema of wide open spaces seen in our opening-night film First Cow by Kelly Reichardt, and even in the unprecedented experience of lockdown, relived in the short films that make up the Collection Lockdown by Swiss Filmmakers, tomorrow’s closing-night feature at Locarno 2020.
 
 
The complete list of award winners is as follows:
 
The Films After Tomorrow – International selection
 
The jury for the international selection, made up of Nadav Lapid, Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese and Kelly Reichardt, awarded the following prizes:

 
Pardo 2020: for the production of the film, to the best international project (70,000 Swiss francs) 
CHOCOBAR by Lucrecia Martel, Argentina/USA/Denmark/Mexico
 
Campari Award: special jury prize (50,000 Swiss francs)
SELVAJARIA (Savagery) by Miguel Gomes, Portugal/France/Brazil/Chine/Greece
 
Swatch Award: for the most innovative project (30,000 Swiss francs) and the opportunity to design a limited-edition Swatch which will be the official watch of Locarno74
DE HUMANI CORPORIS FABRICA (The Fabric of the Human Body) by Verena Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor

 
 
The Films After Tomorrow – Swiss selection
 
The jury for the Swiss selection, made up of Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Alina Marazzi and Matías Piñeiro, awarded the following prizes:
 

Pardo 2020: for the production of the film, to the best Swiss project (70,000 Swiss francs)
ZAHORÍ by Marí Alessandrini, Switzerland/Argentina/Chile/France
 
SRG SSR Award: promotional television campaign worth 100,000 Swiss francs for a Swiss project, guaranteeing publicity on national networks to accompany theatrical release in Switzerland
LUX by Raphaël Dubach and Mateo Ybarra, Switzerland

 
 
Pardi di domani
 
The Pardi di domani jury, made up of Kiri Dalena, Mamadou Dia and Claudette Godfrey, awarded the following prizes:
 
International Competition
 

Pardino d’oro SRG SSR for the best international short film (10,000 Swiss francs)
I RAN FROM IT AND WAS STILL IN IT by Darol Olu Kae, USA
 
Pardino d’argento SRG SSR for an international short film (5,000 Swiss francs)
HISTORY OF CIVILIZATION by Zhannat Alshanova, Kazakhstan
 
Medien Patent Verwaltung AG Prize, sponsored by Medien Patent Verwaltung AG, in the form of subtitling in three central European languages
THIÊN ĐƯỜNG GỌI TÊN (A Trip to Heaven) by Linh Duong, Vietnam/Singapore
 
Special Mention
LIFE ON THE HORN by Mo Harawe, Somalia/Austria/Germany
 

 
Swiss Competition
 

Pardino d’oro Swiss Life for the best Swiss short film (10,000 Swiss francs)
MENSCHEN AM SAMSTAG (People on Saturday) by Jonas Ulrich, Switzerland
(Locarno Short Film Candidate for the European Film Awards)
 
Pardino d’argento Swiss Life for a Swiss short film (5,000 Swiss francs)
TROU NOIR (Black Hole) by Tristan Aymon, Switzerland
 
Best Swiss Newcomer Prize, consisting of equipment and services offered by Cinegrell, Freestudios and Taurus Studio
LACHSMÄNNER (Salmon Men) by Veronica L. Montaño, Manuela Leuenberger, Joel Hofmann, Switzerland

 

The Cinema&Gioventù junior jury also awarded the following prizes:
  
The Films After Tomorrow
 
Prize for best international project (5,000 Swiss francs)
CIDADE;CAMPO by Juliana Rojas, Brazil

Prize for best Swiss project (3,000 Swiss francs)
AZOR by Andreas Fontana, Switzerland/France/Argentina

“Environment is quality of life” Prize (3,000 Swiss francs)
EUREKA by Lisandro Alonso, France/Portugal/Germany/Mexico/Argentina
  
 
Pardi di domani
 
Prize for best international short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
ANINSRI DAENG (Red Aninsri; or, Tiptoeing on the Still Trembling Berlin Wall) by Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, Thailand
 
Prize for best Swiss short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
TROU NOIR (Black Hole) by Tristan Aymon, Switzerland
 
 
Open Doors Screenings
 
Short films
 
Prize for best short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
KADO (A Gift) di Aditya Ahmad, Indonesia

Special Mention
LIAR LAND di Ananth Subramaniam, Malaysia
 
 
Long films

“Environment is quality of life” Prize a for best full-length feature (2,000 Swiss francs)
SELL OUT! by Yeo Joon Han, Malaysia
Special Mention

ENGKWENTRO (Clash) by Pepe Diokno, Philippines
 
 
Perfectly in tune with the spirit of Locarno 2020, this year’s juries gave their verdict virtually. To watch the moment when their decision was announced, go to.
Artistic Director Lili Hinstin engaged in conversation with all the winners of The Films After Tomorrow, addressing both artistic and financial aspects of their projects and discussing how the global pandemic has impacted and is continuing to severely affect the film industry in its entirety. The conversations were filmed and can be watched again here.
To see the reactions of the Pardi di domani winners go here, and to watch again the Best Of Open Doors Hub & Lab go here.
 
Pictures and videos of the Prize List for Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films are available for download here.

The 74^th Locarno Film Festival will take place from 4 to 14 August 2021.
 

Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films: award winners at the special edition

Two female gazes, stretching from Switzerland to Argentina, have won the Pardi 2020 awards – each worth 70,000 Swiss francs – for productions halted by the COVID-19 crisis. The international jury for The Films After Tomorrow– made up of Nadav Lapid, Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese and Kelly Reichardt – picked out Chocobar, by acclaimed Argentinian filmmaker Lucrecia Martel, a political documentary that takes its cue from the murder in 2000 of land rights activist Javier Chocobar to investigate aspects of colonization and native culture. The jury of the Swiss selection, composed of Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Alina Marazzi and Matías Piñeiro, awarded another female director, Marí Alessandrini, with Zahorí, a Swiss production also set in Argentina, where an unlikely friendship grows on the Patagonian Steppe between a thirteen-year-old girl of Ticino origin and an old Mapuche man.
 
In the international selection the Campari Award, a special jury prize worth 50,000 Swiss francs, went to the film Selvajaria (Savagery) by Miguel Gomes, freely adapted from the novel Rebellion in the Backlands by Euclides da Cunha, an account of the late 19^th century military campaign of the newly-formed Brazilian Republic against the tiny settlement of Canudos. The Swatch Award for the most innovative project (30,000 Swiss francs) was won by De Humani Corporis Fabrica (The Fabric of the Human Body) by Verena Paravel and Lucien-Castaing Taylor, a political and philosophical documentary on the delicate issues of bioethics raised by new technologies in medicine. Among the projects in the Swiss selection, the SRG SSR Award, consisting in a TV advertising campaign worth 100,000 Swiss francs, was assigned to LUX, a documentary about the Swiss army by young filmmakers Raphaël Dubach and Mateo Ybarra.
The list above comprises the verdict for the flagship section of this special edition of the Locarno Film Festival, conceived as a way of confronting the challenges of the cinema industry imposed by the global pandemic, and now coming to a successful close.
 
The pictures that tell the story of Locarno 2020 are unlike those from any other edition. Gone this year, alas, is the collective embrace of the Piazza Grande and the glamour of international movie stars. At the same time, however, this was the year in which the Festival opened up to a truly global audience with its first ever online programming. It has been a year of solidarity, too, with the projects in The Films After Tomorrow and those which, like Closer to Life, were organized on behalf of independent movie theaters, one of the film industry sectors worst hit in recent months. A year in which the filmmakers of the future took center stage, with the Pardi di domani short films section being followed enthusiastically both online and in theaters – where some of the Swiss directors were able to present their films to the audience physically. The main prizes for the Pardi di domani went to I ran from it and was still in it by Darol Olu Kae in the international competition and to Menschen am Samstag (People on Saturday) by Jonas Ulrich in the Swiss competition.
But this was also a year when the focus on reassessment of the past was equally sharp, with landmark titles in Festival history and the rediscovery of the event’s extensive archives. A year when we could explore or return to the cinemas of the Global South and East, thanks to the Open Doors Screenings– in which for the first time prizes have been awarded by the Cinema&Gioventù youth jury – and Through the Open Doors. Last but by no means least, this was a year when we experienced the joy of going to the movies again: in the Secret Screenings, in the cinema of wide open spaces seen in our opening-night film First Cow by Kelly Reichardt, and even in the unprecedented experience of lockdown, relived in the short films that make up the Collection Lockdown by Swiss Filmmakers, tomorrow’s closing-night feature at Locarno 2020.
 
 
The complete list of award winners is as follows:
 
The Films After Tomorrow – International selection
 
The jury for the international selection, made up of Nadav Lapid, Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese and Kelly Reichardt, awarded the following prizes:

 
Pardo 2020: for the production of the film, to the best international project (70,000 Swiss francs) 
CHOCOBAR by Lucrecia Martel, Argentina/USA/Denmark/Mexico
 
Campari Award: special jury prize (50,000 Swiss francs)
SELVAJARIA (Savagery) by Miguel Gomes, Portugal/France/Brazil/Chine/Greece
 
Swatch Award: for the most innovative project (30,000 Swiss francs) and the opportunity to design a limited-edition Swatch which will be the official watch of Locarno74
DE HUMANI CORPORIS FABRICA (The Fabric of the Human Body) by Verena Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor

 
 
The Films After Tomorrow – Swiss selection
 
The jury for the Swiss selection, made up of Mohsen Makhmalbaf, Alina Marazzi and Matías Piñeiro, awarded the following prizes:
 

Pardo 2020: for the production of the film, to the best Swiss project (70,000 Swiss francs)
ZAHORÍ by Marí Alessandrini, Switzerland/Argentina/Chile/France
 
SRG SSR Award: promotional television campaign worth 100,000 Swiss francs for a Swiss project, guaranteeing publicity on national networks to accompany theatrical release in Switzerland
LUX by Raphaël Dubach and Mateo Ybarra, Switzerland

 
 
Pardi di domani
 
The Pardi di domani jury, made up of Kiri Dalena, Mamadou Dia and Claudette Godfrey, awarded the following prizes:
 
International Competition
 

Pardino d’oro SRG SSR for the best international short film (10,000 Swiss francs)
I RAN FROM IT AND WAS STILL IN IT by Darol Olu Kae, USA
 
Pardino d’argento SRG SSR for an international short film (5,000 Swiss francs)
HISTORY OF CIVILIZATION by Zhannat Alshanova, Kazakhstan
 
Medien Patent Verwaltung AG Prize, sponsored by Medien Patent Verwaltung AG, in the form of subtitling in three central European languages
THIÊN ĐƯỜNG GỌI TÊN (A Trip to Heaven) by Linh Duong, Vietnam/Singapore
 
Special Mention
LIFE ON THE HORN by Mo Harawe, Somalia/Austria/Germany
 

 
Swiss Competition
 

Pardino d’oro Swiss Life for the best Swiss short film (10,000 Swiss francs)
MENSCHEN AM SAMSTAG (People on Saturday) by Jonas Ulrich, Switzerland
(Locarno Short Film Candidate for the European Film Awards)
 
Pardino d’argento Swiss Life for a Swiss short film (5,000 Swiss francs)
TROU NOIR (Black Hole) by Tristan Aymon, Switzerland
 
Best Swiss Newcomer Prize, consisting of equipment and services offered by Cinegrell, Freestudios and Taurus Studio
LACHSMÄNNER (Salmon Men) by Veronica L. Montaño, Manuela Leuenberger, Joel Hofmann, Switzerland

 

The Cinema&Gioventù junior jury also awarded the following prizes:
  
The Films After Tomorrow
 
Prize for best international project (5,000 Swiss francs)
CIDADE;CAMPO by Juliana Rojas, Brazil

Prize for best Swiss project (3,000 Swiss francs)
AZOR by Andreas Fontana, Switzerland/France/Argentina

“Environment is quality of life” Prize (3,000 Swiss francs)
EUREKA by Lisandro Alonso, France/Portugal/Germany/Mexico/Argentina
  
 
Pardi di domani
 
Prize for best international short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
ANINSRI DAENG (Red Aninsri; or, Tiptoeing on the Still Trembling Berlin Wall) by Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, Thailand
 
Prize for best Swiss short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
TROU NOIR (Black Hole) by Tristan Aymon, Switzerland
 
 
Open Doors Screenings
 
Short films
 
Prize for best short film (1,500 Swiss francs)
KADO (A Gift) di Aditya Ahmad, Indonesia

Special Mention
LIAR LAND di Ananth Subramaniam, Malaysia
 
 
Long films

“Environment is quality of life” Prize a for best full-length feature (2,000 Swiss francs)
SELL OUT! by Yeo Joon Han, Malaysia
Special Mention

ENGKWENTRO (Clash) by Pepe Diokno, Philippines
 
 
Perfectly in tune with the spirit of Locarno 2020, this year’s juries gave their verdict virtually. To watch the moment when their decision was announced, go to.
Artistic Director Lili Hinstin engaged in conversation with all the winners of The Films After Tomorrow, addressing both artistic and financial aspects of their projects and discussing how the global pandemic has impacted and is continuing to severely affect the film industry in its entirety. The conversations were filmed and can be watched again here.
To see the reactions of the Pardi di domani winners go here, and to watch again the Best Of Open Doors Hub & Lab go here.
 
Pictures and videos of the Prize List for Locarno 2020 – For the Future of Films are available for download here.

The 74^th Locarno Film Festival will take place from 4 to 14 August 2021.
 

The IndieFEST Film Awards strives to give talented directors, producers, actors, creative teams and new media creators the positive exposure and credibility they deserve.  IndieFEST discovers and honors the achievements of filmmakers who produce high quality films and new media.  Attracting both powerhouse industry veterans as well as talented new filmmakers, The IndieFEST is an exceptional, truly international awards competition, not a traditional film festival.  The goal of IndieFEST is about helping independent filmmakers gain the credibility and publicity they justly deserve.  Our talented IndieFEST award winners have gone on to win Emmy, Telly and other awards.

~ Best of Show ~ 

If Anything Happens I Love You – Will McCormack and Michael Govier

Will McCormack and Michael Govier (USA), If Anything Happens I Love You, Animation – Executive produced by Oscar-winner Laura Dern – A simple yet exquisitely profound animation depicting grieving parents struggling with the loss of their daughter after a school shooting. Creatively imagined using spirit shadows, engaging animation style and deft direction it captures the unimaginable loneliness and devastation of grief. Though innately tragic, it also portrays a feeling of healing and hope to all that have lost loved ones. It is a film with intention, a pitch-perfect tapestry of artistry and emotion. Driven by a beautiful soundtrack, outstanding sound design, sharp editing and an impactful animation style that brilliantly portrays every emotion of the characters. An inspired and heartful way of addressing one of the critical issues of our times. Animation Director Youngran Nho, original music by Lindsay Marcus (About Cherry), spot-on editing by Peter Ettinger (The Bourne Identity). Directors Will McCormack (Toy Story 4), Michael Govier (Best Friends Forever). Producers: Maryann Garger (Lego Ninjago), Gary Gilbert (La La Land), Gerald Chamales (The Irishman).  Executive Producers Jayme Lemons (Enlightened), Peter Morgan (American Sniper), Sydney Holland (#Horror).

~ Outstanding Achievement ~ 

After Forever – Season 2 -- Michael Slade & Kevin Spirtas

Michael Slade & Kevin Spirtas (USA), After Forever - Season 2, Digital Drama /Web Series -- Created by Michael Slade & Kevin Spirtas – After Forever is a six-Emmy award-winning series that is funny, heartbreaking, heartwarming and ultimately empowering. It creatively explores relationships, healing, grief and new beginnings. The focus is a 50-ish married couple, Brian and Jason, their friends and family, as they deal with a major loss brilliantly weaving together the stages of grief with current story lines and emotional flashbacks. Written by multiple Emmy-winner Michael Slade, directed by Academy of Web TV award winner Tina Cesa Ward, produced by Emmy-winner Allison Vanore. Stars: Emmy-winner Kevin Spirtas (Days of Our Lives), Emmy-nominee Mitchell Anderson (Party of Five), David Dean Bottrell (The Blacklist), SAG-nominated Bill Brochtrup (Shameless), Emmy-winner Erin Cherry (Sunday’s With A Cherry on Top), Emmy & Tony nominated Anita Gillete (Moonstruck), Emmy-nominee Lenny Wolpe (Wicked), Emmy-nominee Mary Beth Peil (The Good Wife), Christopher J. Hanke (Breaking Fast), Emmy-nominee & Tony-winner Cady Huffman (The Producers), Peter Kim (Saturday Church), Robert Emmet Lunney (Famous Blue Raincoat), Mike McGowan (Here and Now), Finn Douglas (House of Cards).

 ~ Award of Excellence Special Mention ~

Kavi Raz Studios and Minhas Films (Canada), Barefoot Warriors, Film Feature – A disgraced American soccer star seeks to redeem himself but ends up fulfilling dreams for a village in India. Stunning cinematography, exceptional lighting and touching performances. Sean Faris (Pearl Harbor), Mukul Dev (Omerta), Rajpal Yadav (Jungle), Rajen Toor (My Country) an inspired performance by Kavi Raz. Producer Jatinder Jay Minhas.

Gillian Mosely (United Kingdom), The Tinderbox, Doc Feature- BAFTA-winner Mosely delivers an extraordinary, balanced and heart-wrenching examination of the Isreali-Palestinian conflict – never before presented. Ancient and recent history, geopolitical issues, psychology and a deeply personal journey challenge what we think we knew. Producers Emmy-winning Andre Singer, and Emmy-nominated Richard Melman.

Mauro John Capece, Stemo Production; Evoque Art House; ZMA Pictures (Italy), La Danza Nera – The Dark Dance, Film Feature – Combining lush art house style with the poignant tale of political corruption – it illustrates frustration, abduction, lust and despair. Stars: Golden Globe-nominee Franco Nero (Django Unchained), Corinna Coroneo (The Sculpture), Flavio Sciolè,(Giro Giro Tondo), Michela Bruni (Report 51).

Brian Metcalf (USA), Adverse, Film Feature – An all-star action flick about a rideshare driver and his sister in debt to a dangerous crime syndicate. Oscar-nominee Mickey Rourke (The Wrestler), Oscar-nominee Sean Astin (The Lord of the Ring Trilogy), Golden Globe- nominee Lou Diamond Phillips (La Bamba), Golden Globe-nominee Penelope Ann Miller (The Artist), Thomas Ian Nicholas (Walt Before Mickey).

Dylan Brody (USA), The Corona Dialogues, Web Series – A timely dramatic-comedy played entirely in video-conferencing during the pandemic. Brilliantly written with exceptionally authentic performances –  it portrays sibling rivalries, paternal secrets and sharp commentary. Kate Orsini (NCIS), Dylan Brody (You Are Here), Emmy-nominee Bonnie Hunt (The Bonnie Show) and Emmy-nominee  Eduardo Ponsdomenech (True Blood).

Sara Ganim (USA), No Defense, Doc Feature – Pulitzer-Prize-winner Ganim brings the story of American citizens fighting the U.S. military over their usage of PFAS – a known toxin they have been using for decades that is contaminating waterways and causing illness and death for residents. Exceptionally well researched, paced and delivered.  Shocking facts punctuated by poignant messaging and touching stories.

Lucas Drummond (Brazil), After That Party (Depois Daquela Festa), Film Short – An utterly charming and poignant story of a son who sees his father kissing another man in the middle of a party and his struggle to find a way to talk to him about it. Delightful characters are brought to life by a talented cast and deft direction by Caio Scot. Stars: Lucas Drummond (Todxs Nós), Charles Fricks and Mel Carvalho.

Eric M. Klein and Dax Phelan (USA), Final Moments, PSA – A potent PSA about the end of life due to COVID-19 and the pain for all involved. A short but deeply raw and poignant message for our times, encouraging the use of masks to save lives. Directors Klein (Chimera Strain) and Phelan (Accolade Best of Show, Jasmine). Stars Greg Lucey (Last Dance), Maranda Mobley (First Kiss) and Jessica Sherman (Ultimate, Ultimate).

Shir Baron (USA), The Train to Qinling, Animation – A Middle-Eastern traveler gets lost on a train in China with no one else but a Panda! She must learn to communicate with him in order to find the adventure she was looking for. An utterly charming animation with engaging characters and superb emotional depictions – and a subtle message to find creative ways to understand one another. Ringling College of Art and design.

Danny Rosenberg (USA), Pete’s Putrid Peas, Film Short – A stylized and genre-bending film about an isolated social media influencer and his self-inflicted “eat only peas” challenge for three weeks. Insightful messages about depression and social media addiction. Stars David Zaldivar (Madam Secretary, Ben is Back) Allegra Preuss, Brian Olyaryz with excellent visual effects by Navid Sanati (Cosmos: Possible Worlds).

 ~ Award of Excellence ~ 

Andy Ross (Australia), THE FEAR ENGINE, Documentary Feature, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Anthony Sarracco (Canada), TENDENZA, Documentary Feature
Arrow Sky Studios (USA), Planet Blue – Journey to Eco, Animation, Film Short
Artie Romero (USA), Monkey & Cat, Children / Family Programming
Babis Galanakis (Greece), Babis-Elena Wedding Trailer-Love is heard in the silence, Weddings, Cinematography
Bank Tangjaitrong (Thailand), Songkran, Asian, Direction
Brandon Lopez (USA), Long Way Down, Animation (Student)
Brian Metcalf (USA), LIVING AMONG US, Film Feature
Brice Blanloeil (France), 8102 ARIM, Commercial / Infomercial
Cam Cowan (USA), OPEKA, Documentary Feature
Caris Vujcec (USA), Pepper: Ricochet, Script / Writer (Caris Vujcec), Web Series
Catherine Legault (Canada), Sisters: Dream & Variations, Editing, Original Score (Sisters: Dream & Variations Soundtrack)
Charles Vinick, Dr. Lori Marino, Michael Mountain and Matt Stamm, The Whale Sanctuary Project (USA), Whales Without Walls, Documentary Short, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Christian Antonini and Tanice Arnold (USA), Stick To Manual, Animation
Christian Schultz (USA), Inherit the Earth, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Conny Conrad (Germany), Live Your Life Today, Original Song (Live your life today composed by Conny Conrad)
Craig McMahon (USA), Sweet Sunshine, Actor: Leading (John Way as TJ Millhouse)
Dylan Brody (USA), The Corona Dialogues – a dylan brody project, Actress: Leading Kate Orsini as Lindsay Grunman, Experimental, Special Purpose Productions, Actor: Leading Dylan Brody as Daniel Grunman, Actor: Supporting (Alan Brody as Paul Grunman), Actress: Supporting (Bonnie Hunt as Arnie Plesky)
Gege Fu (USA), No Man with Wings, Asian (Student), Children / Family Programming (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Gillian Mosely (United Kingdom), The Tinderbox, Videography, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery
James D. Fields, Silver Lining Pictures (USA), Magic Max, Actor: Leading (Parker Bates as Tim Hart)
Jon Cohen (Australia), Paradox, Film Short
Josh Garvin (USA), Oakdale, 1959, Actress: Leading (Terry Kaye as Mrs. Wallace), Film Short
Kavi Raz, Minhas Films and Kavi Raz Studios (USA), Barefoot Warriors, Actor: Supporting (Kavi Raz as Manna Singh), Asian, Actor: Leading (Sean Faris as Christian Paliski)
Marcelo Vogelaar, Graci Guarani, Alexandre Pankararu, Thiago Dezan, Leo Otero and Thomaz Pedro (United Kingdom), My Blood Is Red, Native American / Aboriginal Peoples, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Mark Gordon (USA), Awakening In Taos, Documentary Feature
Mauro John Capece, Stemo Production; Evoque Art House; ZMA Pictures (Italy), La Danza Nera – The Dark Dance, Actress: Leading (Corinna Coroneo as Manola)
Menelek Lumumba (USA), 1 Angry Black Man, African American
Michael “Pom” Preston and Natasha Deganello Giraudie, Micro-Documentaries (USA), One Word Sawalmem, Film Short
Michael Strauss (USA), A New Vision, Experimental, Viewer Impact: Motivational / Inspirational|
Raphael Pazoumian (USA), Rio Tigre – Olympiades, Music Video
Roko Belic (USA), TRUST ME, Documentary Feature, Educational / Instructional / Training
Roman Gerodimos (United Kingdom), Deterrence, Documentary Feature, Web Series
Russell Southam (Australia), Black Heart, Red Hands, Sound Editing / Sound Mixing (Jamie Gamache), Original Score (Composed by Sarah Playford)
Sara Ganim (USA), No Defense, Women Filmmakers, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Scott Boxenbaum and Nik Smith (USA), Fully Formed Adults: Pay Or Quit, Webisode (Student)
Seora Hong (USA), REDEMPTION, Animation
Shir Baron (USA), The Train to Qinling, Women Filmmakers
Shu Zhu and Ino Yang Popper (USA), BORDER, Experimental (Student)
Sonia Bajaj (USA), The Perfect Date, Web Tube Length Video, Women Filmmakers
Steve Chivers (USA), Dated, LGBT
Steve Gibson (USA), The Lost Within, Script / Writer
Tim Moore and PJ Accetturo (USA), Diagnosing Healthcare, Documentary Feature
Tina Cesa Ward (USA), After Forever – Season 2, Direction, Script / Writer
Yuval David (USA), One Actor Short, Experimental

 ~ Award of Merit Special Mention ~

Bradley Hawkins (USA), Calf Rope, Film Short, Movie Trailer
Cameron Barrett (USA), Think of Your Neighbors, Public Service Programming / PSA
Chris and Robert Smellin (Australia), In Love with Ally Barker, Actress: Leading (Laura Jane Turner as Ally Barker), LGBT
Derek Bauer (USA), Two Yellow Lines, Film Feature
Devi Morgan (USA), Like Daughter, Like Mother, Film Short, Actress: Leading (Devi Morgan as Myra)
Gigisha Abashidze (USA), BODY PLACE IMAGE, Documentary Short
Hongshi Zhong (USA), Almost May, Film Short (Student)
Joslyn Rose Lyons (USA), Looking Glass, Women Filmmakers
M. Rowan Meyer (USA), Patient, Television – Pilot Program
Marcelo Vogelaar, Graci Guarani, Alexandre Pankararu, Thiago Dezan, Leo Otero and Thomaz Pedro (United Kingdom), My Blood Is Red, Documentary Feature
Menelek Lumumba (USA), 1 Angry Black Man, Film Feature, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Michael Everett (USA), Canes Creek, Music Video
Myles Banks, Just Stunt Productions, LLC (USA), Not Just A Game -The Story of Savage, Documentary Short
Richard Zelniker (USA), Beckoned, Film Short
Russell Southam (Australia), Black Heart, Red Hands, Actor: Leading (Benjamin W Sullivan as Pete), Film Short (Russell Southam)
Seth Kozak (USA), Rendezvous, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest
Steve Chivers (USA), Dated, Film Short
Steve Gibson (USA), The Lost Within, Actor: Leading (David Gries as Jon Edens), Actress: Leading (Jami Tennille as Adelaide Zook), Film Feature
Thomas R. Bloom (USA), Human, Music Video
Tiffany Rhodes (USA), Harbor Island, Television – Pilot Program, Women Filmmakers

 ~ Award of Merit ~

Adam Swain Ferguson (USA), Patrick, LGBT
Alan Mascareno (USA), Safe and Warm (Lullaby for Jesus), Music Video
Alexandra Conway (USA), alone. together., Film Short
Amir Mehran and Mojtaba Esmaealzadeh (Iran), Tree, Film Short
Angie Castro (USA), Salsa Mia, Latin / Hispanic
Ani Hovannisian (USA), The Hidden Map, Documentary Feature
Anthony Giordano (USA), The Anthony Show, Web Series
Bradley Hawkins (USA), Calf Rope, Actor: Leading (Gorman Ruggiero as Mac), Children / Family Programming, Direction (Bradley Hawkins), Editing (Ryan Geesaman), Script / Writer (Jake Stetler & Bradley Hawkins), Original Score (Calf Rope by Ellie Brooke & Bradley Hawkins), Cinematography (Sofia Monzerratt)
Breeana Hinton (USA), Wake, Animation
Brian Thomas (USA), Amy’s Victory Dance, Disability Issues
Bryan Crain and Dave Cantrell (USA), Oil Capital Underground: The Genesis and Evolution of Punk Rock in Tulsa-Late 70’s to Mid 90’s, Documentary Feature
Calvin Kai Ku and Ken Newman (USA), It Stops Today, Music Video, Original Song (I Can’t Breathe – Words and Music by Ken Newman)
Calvin Kai Ku and Ken Newman (USA), What Am I Afraid Of, Music Video
Caris Vujcec (USA), Pepper: Ricochet, Actor: Supporting (Maxon Davis as Russian Operative), Costume Design (Lenore Pemberton), Editing (Jessica Green), Original Song (Divide It Up composed by Gus Walters & At the Helm), Animation (Phaneendra Mylavarapu)
Catherine Legault (Canada), Sisters: Dream & Variations, Documentary Feature, Arts / Cultural / Performance / Plays, Women Filmmakers
Chiffon Valentine (USA), Cliques, Television – Pilot Program
Conny Conrad (Germany), Live Your Life Today, Music Video
Cristiano Neila (Italy), Grabadora Sound, Film Short
Dagmar Scheibenreif (United Kingdom), VOID, Women Filmmakers, Direction
Dakota Blose (USA), Anything Helps, Animation
Darren Hawkins (Australia), The Lonely Road, Film Short
David Elmy and Amelia Gwaltney (USA), ConsentR, Web / Internet Programming
Deirdre Allen Timmons (USA), Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker, Documentary Short
Derek Bauer (USA), Two Yellow Lines, Actor: Leading (Zac Titus as Jack Elliott)
Ericka de Alexander (USA), The First Color, Disability Issues, Actress: Leading (Becka Adams as Devon Tout)
George Wingard (USA), We Came A Long Way By Faith:  Catholic Hill and St. James the Greater Catholic Church, Documentary Short
Gigi Burgdorf (United Kingdom), Same Time Next Week, Film Short, Women Filmmakers
Giovannie Espiritu (USA), ALLY 3000, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Women Filmmakers, Humor / Humorist
Gui Garcia and Cathryn Castle Garcia (USA), The Mirage: A Pandemic Dream, Film Short
HIRO (Japan), Banana, Music Video
James Anthony (USA), Crossroads, African American, Actor: Leading (James Anthony as Rodney)
James Meyer and Sara Meyer (Germany), The Traveler, Children / Family Programming, Christian, Film Feature
Jason Ivey (USA), Chronicles of a Douche Bag, African American, Pilot Program / Series
Jeanne Taylor (USA), Mrs. Carmody & Mrs. Jellineck: A Brush With Murder!, Web Series
Jeff Willy (USA), Socially Distanced, Web Series
Jen Hosker (USA), New Hampshire:  Live Free and Fly, Experimental, Music Video, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Jennifer Yarbrough and RJ Vinalon (USA), Shock the Monkey – heavy metal cover by Low Octane, Music Video
Jeremy Lu (USA), A Peek of Love, Asian (Student)
Jo Hewer (United Kingdom), Mordecai’s Girl, Web Series
John Walbolt (USA), Non-Eq, Film Short
Jordan Wood (Canada), While You’re Still Here, Editing
Josh Minnie (USA), Murder Has Joined the Meeting, Film Short
Katia Khazak, Aurora Films (France), Noée in the Storm, Film Short
Mark Griffin, Gryffyn Productions Ltd (United Kingdom), Lawrence: After Arabia, Film Feature, Actor: Leading (Tom Barber Duffy as T.E. Lawrence)
Matthew Michael Ross (USA), MOTHER’S DAY MEMORIES, Disability Issues
Michael Phibbs (USA), All In – When Inside Rome (S1E2), Webisode
Michael Yip (USA), The Gay Mafia, LGBT (Student)
Michele Fadani (Italy), DOSOLOSO: THE GREATEST BASKETBALL FIGHT – EPISODE 2, Experimental, Concept
Mo Fini and Edesio Alejandro (United Kingdom), Mambo Man, Latin / Hispanic
Myava Mitchell (USA), Nobody, Music Video
Nela Wagman (USA), That Was Delicious, Actress: Leading (Student) (Nela Wagman as Woman)
Pablo G. Velez (USA), I Wanna Quarantine With You, Music Video
Phil Wilson (USA), Caballito de Totora Surfriders of Peru, Documentary Short
Rachael James, A University of Melbourne, Deakin, and OCSC Production (Australia), Cybersecurity and IP Theft: backstory, Film Short
Ramesh Vijayan (USA), Rising Sun, Music Video
Ray Spivey and Jeff Kerr  (USA), Writer’s Block, Film Feature, Actress: Supporting (Jeannie Carter Cruz as Catalina)
Robbie Barnes (USA), Scales, Women Filmmakers
Robert Sallin (USA), For the Life of Me, Documentary Short, Jewish
Ronnie Cramer (USA), The Chair, Film Short
Russell Southam (Australia), Black Heart, Red Hands, Actress: Leading (Gemma Dart as Sam), Actress: Supporting (Caitlin Murphy as PSC Det. Sgt. Christine Draper), Editing (Adam Spinks), Post-Production Overall (Russell Southam, Adam Spinks and Jamie Gamache), Special Purpose Productions
Sally Lomidze (USA), All In Favor, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Television – Pilot Program
Seth Kozak (USA), Rendezvous, Actress: Leading (Katarina Morhacova as Catalina Wright)
Sina Sultani (Canada), Refuge, Islamic, Concept
Sonia Bajaj (USA), Remember This, Public Service Programming / PSA, Women Filmmakers
Stephanie Castelete-Tyrrell, Four Wheel Drive Productions (United Kingdom), Living In Fear, Disability Issues
Terry Blade (USA), The Last Macbeth, Music Video
Theresa June-Tao and Thuo Sam (USA), Crash and Burn by December Fades, Original Song (Crash and Burn by December Fades)
Travis Darkow (USA), The Keeping Cost, Film Short

 ~ Award of Recognition ~

Angelena Bonet (Australia), Change The World, Music Video
Ashley Winters (USA), PT: Pain & Torture, Web Series
Bradley Hawkins (USA), Calf Rope, Actor: Supporting (Lukas Barnett as Brandon)
Carl Gilliard, Don Fullilove, Latonya Gilliard, Carole Copeland, Ericka Nicole Malone & T Smith (USA), Two Degrees, Web Series
Chauncey Johnson (USA), And Then There Was Damien, African American
Chen Liang (USA), STOWAWAYS, Film Feature
Chris Pulaj (USA), Top of the Key, Film Short (Student)
Clyde T Bennett (USA), Odds, Film Short, Actor: Leading (Kevin J. O’Connor as John E Cash)
Daniel Pennington (USA), May Your Prayers Last Forever, Film Short (Student)
Danielle Georgiou (USA), The Savage Seconds, Experimental
Dareen Hasan Halimah (Netherlands), A Happy women’s Day, Women Filmmakers
Darius Valentine and Allison Rishwain (USA), Hourglass, Actress: Leading (Charlotte Frøyland as Coraline)
Debi Yazbeck (USA), Out of the Walls, Actress: Leading (Tomorrow Shea as Lori Hawes)
Derek Bauer (USA), Two Yellow Lines, Actress: Leading (Alexis Titus as Hanna)
Devin Luther (USA), Dear Mama, Television – Program / Series
Diane Revilla (USA), Barrio Of Mansions, Latin / Hispanic
Don Tjernagel (USA), The Last Regret, Actress: Leading (Sam Cota as Sam), Film Feature
Eddie DeBartolo (USA), Fear Thy Forest-A Short Horror Film, Young Filmmaker – 17 and younger
Elica Matic Sholler (Australia), herrings of the heart, Women Filmmakers
Elizabeth Usher (Australia), Two Arms Apart, Music Video
Elizabeth Usher (Australia), There’s No Place for a Uke on Halloween, Animation, Music Video
Evan Mulgrave (USA), We Left As Brothers, Documentary Feature
Faranak Sahafian (USA), Mirror, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest (Student)
Francesca Jandasek (USA), Put The Devil Back In Hell, Women Filmmakers
Frank Thierry and Lea Malle (Cameroon), INNOCENT, Film Feature
Jaime Lyn Beatty (USA), “ÇA VA”: A Puppet Quarantine Film., Experimental
Jason C. Gares (USA), Beyond the Comic Panels, Documentary Feature
Jeanne Taylor (USA), Mrs. Carmody & Mrs. Jellineck: A Brush With Murder!, Actress: Leading (Jeanne Taylor as Mrs. Carmody & Mrs. Jellineck), Script / Writer (Jeanne Taylor)
Jenness Rouse (USA), TIKTok-IN’! “SINK DA MAYO” (Ep.19.5Tk: The Shannon O’Brian Chronicles), Mobile / Cell Phone Media
Jihyun Lee (Korea ), Mornings of the World, Asian
John KixMiller and Tamara Kachelmeier (USA), The Protectors of the Wood – Dreamstone Warriors, Webisode
John Washburn (USA), Abasement, Film Short
Johnny Ray Campbell (USA), The Traffic Stop, Film Short
Julián De La Chica (USA), Agatha, LGBT
Kerry Ann Frazier and Chris Sanders (USA), Shattered Pieces, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Kevin Veatch (USA), Gargantua vs. the Robot, Original Score (Gargantua vs. the Robot Theme composed by Kevin Veatch)
Laurence Storey (United Kingdom), The Fidget, Disability Issues (Student), Ensemble Cast (Student)
Marc Grandsard (France), The Visit, Jewish
Mario Pascariello and Tommaso MiceliMalaguti (Italy), Miracle! Mother Nature has appeared to me, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Mark Griffin, Gryffyn Productions Ltd (United Kingdom), Lawrence: After Arabia, Makeup
Matteo Trombetta (Italy), Edovit-20, Documentary Short
Melea Cadmium (USA), Layered Quintessence, Experimental (Student)
Nela Wagman (USA), That Was Delicious, Web Tube Length Video (Student)
Nicole Cone (USA), Four Women, African American (Student), Liberation / Social Justice / Protest (Student)
Paul Fletcher Dual National UK/Australia (United Kingdom), Merry Crocmas, Music Video, Animation, Children / Family Programming
Rachel Eddy and Bobby Eddy, Eddy for Eddything, LLC (USA), jew(ish), Jewish
Rahsaan Jones (USA), Homeland Hero, Documentary Short
Rochak Sahu (India), A BOHEMIAN MUSICIAN, Film Short (Student)
Rodney Roldan (USA), Typography Through Time: Renaissance Era, Documentary Short, Television – Program / Series
Rola Hage Ali (United Kingdom), Your Side, Film Short
Ron Clemons (USA), MAN, African American, Film Short
Russell Southam (Australia), Black Heart, Red Hands, Actor: Supporting (Kurt Bayly as Dan)
Ryan Roach (USA), Road Trip USA!, Film Short
Shihyun Wang (USA), Marilyn, History / Biographical
skjmmjngtonrjde. (USA), lucky day, Experimental
Sonia Bajaj (USA), Alone, Web Tube Length Video
Sophia Costanzo, Loyola Marymount University (USA), Father Daughter, Latin / Hispanic (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Sophie O’Gorman (Australia), Radical Romance, Experimental, Women Filmmakers, Actor: Leading (Andrew Cullimore as Fisen), Actress: Leading (Ella Harvey as Sarah), Actress: Supporting (Melissa Griffiths as The Baker)
Swaminathan Venkatraman (USA), Terahvin (Thirteenth), Film Short (Student)
Tamir Gedalia (USA), Elder Senior Court, Public Service Programming / PSA
Theresa June-Tao and Thuo Sam (USA), Crash and Burn by December Fades, Music Video
UpHill Productions, LLC (USA), Made In Rhode Island, Television – Program / Series
William Stancik (USA), Glorious Hollywood Medley 1956, Experimental