Join the Club – Kip Andersen and Chris O’Connell
Kip Andersen and Chris O’Connell (USA), Join the Club, Doc Feature – From the visionary director of Cowspiracy comes a poignant doc that transcends mere storytelling and unfolds like a captivating feature film. “Join the Club” embarks on an odyssey through the pivotal LGBTQ+ rights movement of the 20th century, narrating Dennis Peron’s courageous advocacy for cannabis as compassionate medicine amidst the harrowing AIDS crisis of the 1990’s in San Francisco. Peron’s realization that marijuana is not just a recreational indulgence but a potent medicine became a catalyst for change. With unwavering resolve and the support of allies like grandmother and hospital volunteer “Brownie Mary”, Peron pioneered compassionate care through cannabis, defying the dehumanizing war on drugs and brutal police raids. His towering legacy, marked by selfless dedication and ultimately landmark legislation that changed the world by legalizing marijuana, it stands as a testament to the power of compassion in the face of adversity. “Join the Club” is tale of unwavering compassion and resilience that is both poignant and uplifting. Premiered at Tribeca. Aum Films. From Executive Producers Emmy-nominated Aaron Ohlmann and David Clair.
Judging Juries – Abby Ginzberg
Abby Ginzberg (USA), Judging Juries, Doc Short – Peabody-winner Ginzberg consistently delivers a master-class in documentary production – having produced award-winning documentaries about race and social justice for over 30 years. “Judging Juries” tackles the alarming jury diversity crisis and exposes how the absence of African American jurors skews verdicts and sentencing, leaving many defendants without a fair trial. In Oakland, CA, there are often no Black jurors, and the meager $15 daily juror pay in California makes service unattainable for many. Following Alameda County Public Defender Brendon Woods, Ginzberg highlights the dire need for change, showcasing a new pilot program in San Francisco that pays $100 daily for low-income jurors, offering a glimpse of hope for more inclusive juries.
The Italians – Michelle Danner
Michelle Danner (USA), The Italians, Film Feature – In this charming and quirky dramedy, the Vitali family’s world is turned upside down when their son introduces them to his very non-Italian girlfriend. What follows is chaotic, comedic upheaval which ultimately becomes a heartwarming tale of confessionals, love, forgiveness, growth and food – lots of food. Each character of this very talented cast, bursts with a sense of vibrancy. The authentic sets and lighting design add to the film’s nostalgic charm. A delightful exploration of family, tradition, and the unexpected twists of life. Stars: Oscar-nominee Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine), Michelle Danner (Dos Corazones), Emmy-nominee Lainie Kazan (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Matthew Daddario (Shadowhunters), Rob Estes (Silk Stalkings), David DeLuise (Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie), Perrey Reeves (Entourage), Olivia Luccardi (Channel Zero: Butcher’s Block).
Memories Seal (左滩.芳菲年华) – Sean and Zhichao Zhang
Sean and Zhichao Zhang (China), Memories Seal (左滩.芳菲年华), Film Feature – Authentic performances drive this compelling narrative that intertwines the past and present, delving into themes of love, loss, honor, and life’s purpose. Ambitious developer Li Tuo faces a profound challenge: to demolish his father’s life’s work, a power station, for his industrial park project. As he grapples with family conflict, a photograph from the past leads him on a journey of reconciliation and redemption, uncovering secrets and his father’s first love. His modern story parallels the themes of his father’s era, who faced personal loss and love amidst 1970’s communist authority. Stars Jiang Bingjie, Zhang Zhichao, Hu Yuanjun and Zhang Hongyi.
Rick Page (USA), Minutes to Go, Film Short – Award winning Page delivers a poignant exploration of life’s meaning, self-worth, and the transformative power of love during the last minutes of a life-long journey. Tony-nominee Starletta DuPois (Waiting To Exhale) and Aaron Jennings (A League of Their Own) deliver achingly authentic performances, capturing the essence of love, loss, and eternal beauty. Poignant and moving.
Paul Hendy (United Kingdom), The Choice, Film Short – Hendy’s deft direction delivers a haunting, psychological drama, which tells the story of a famous TV personality, whose life and career implodes when a mysterious visitor comes to call. Intriguing script by BAFTA-winner Tim Whitnall with intense and compelling performances by BAFTA-nominee Alex Macqueen and Rita Simmons.
Thomas Nauw and Dennis Bots (Germany), Betrayal (Grenzeloos Verraad), Film Feature – Near WWII’s end in 1945, German-Dutch Nazi officer Ludwig Mengelberg is transferred to the Netherlands. He aids a Dutch farm family hiding people from the Nazis, risking his life and theirs. His actions challenge loyalty and honor, blurring the lines of morality in a time of war. Peter Nillesen, Dirk Gunther Mohr, Kai Kolderand, Andreas Lessig.
Raymond Zhang (Canada), State Organs, Doc Feature – Peabody winner Zhang’s powerful documentary exposes China’s brutal forced organ harvesting, revealing the heartbreaking journeys of families searching for lost loved ones. Their 20-year quest uncovers a shocking state crime, revealing the agony of innocent victims. With an emotional soundtrack by Emmy-winner Daryl Bennett.
Bradley J. Corrigan (USA), Ileana’s Smile, Doc Feature – A poignant, tragic tale set in a Nicaraguan trash dump community. It follows a girl’s life and unlikely friendships with an American musician, taxi driver, pastor and other professionals and locals as they try to create new paths and opportunities for her, ultimately succumbing to the devastating consequences of her circumstances.
François Manceaux (France), Encontro, Film Feature – Seven years after his wife’s death, Alain seeks the actress from his unfinished film, igniting a passionate memory. Upon discovering her disappearance, a mysterious woman aids his investigation, leading him on a hypnotic journey, delving into the complexities of desire, frailty, and the past-present duality. Johan Heldenbergh, Isabel Otero, Dalila Carmo, Paula Pais.
Brian Foyster (USA),The Last Take, Film Short LGBTQ+ – In the twilight of his career, a Hollywood legend confronts his hidden love for another man, revealing the untold stories of stars in a repressive era. With raw emotion and authenticity, this poignant narrative unveils the heartache and resilience of those who dared to love against society’s constraints. Robert John Burke, Richard Fancy, Austin Basis, Brian Foyster.
Hao Jin (China), The Donkey, Asian – In the face of relentless modernization, Mr. Wang grapples with the loss of his traditional lifestyle when his donkey, a symbol of his past, must be sold to make way for rural urbanization. As he rescues the animal from slaughter, he stands defiantly against the tide of change, questioning his place in a world that no longer values the old ways.
Karina Xiao Loerchner (Canada), Nix’s Symphony, 17-years and under – In the enchanting world of steampunk, Nix embraces her mother’s legacy of invention and music. Intricate, creative sets it blends mechanical marvels, magical elements and a captivating narrative. Directed, animated, modeled and composed by the self taught talented 17-year-old Karina, it promises a brilliant future in filmmaking.
Dragos Teglas (United Kingdom), Meet the Local Hero – Glenn Johnstone – A poignant short follows Glenn’s journey from a bone tumor diagnosis to amputation to reclaiming his passion. With a custom prosthetic leg, unwavering support from his colorful father and technological innovations, he rediscovers his passion for biking, celebrating resilience, family, and the triumph of the human spirit. Tightly crafted and truly inspiring.
A.T. (Hong Kong), The Day When We Fall In Love, Asian, Music Video
Amber Simone Theisen (Germany), LASTRY – Look at me now!, Animation, Music Video, Women Filmmakers
Anaëlle Morf (Switzerland), Jewish Blind Date, Jewish (Student), Humor / Humorist (Student), Women Filmmakers (Student)
Arman Sayat (USA), MR Nightmare, Film Short (Student)
Atana® (USA), Uncomfortable Conversations, Educational / Instructional / Training
Bradley J Corrigan (USA), Ileana’s Smile, Liberation / Social Justice / Protest, Original Score
Brian Foyster (USA), The Last Take, LGBTQ+, Costume Design
Carlo Fusco (Italy), Alcohol, Direction, Film Feature
Changhui Kang (Korea), The Ultimate Goal of Life, Animation
Daniel Ramos (USA), Bring Me Up, Music Video
Debra Pralle (USA), A Broad Abroad Pilot, Television – Pilot Program, Actress: Leading (Angela DiMarco as Vera D’Angelo)
Eddie McClintock (USA), Miracle At Manchester, Christian
François Mahé and Maxence Pupillo (France), Splashdown, Music Video
Hung-Lung Hsu (Taiwan), Ping’e Centennial: 141km Cable Undergrounding and Beautification Project along Ping’e Highway, Documentary Short, Public Service Programming / PSA
Hung-Lung Hsu (Taiwan), Taiwan’s ‘Wild Bird’ Power Station, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Jack Winch and Janice Overbeck (USA), The Last Bumblebee, Documentary Feature, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Jose Miguel Soriano and Ricardo Macian (Spain), ÑUÑUYACHIY: BREASTFEEDING WITH AFFECTION AND CARE, Documentary Short
Judson Vaughan (Spain), We Will Find YOU, Direction
Karina Xiao Loerchner (Canada), Nix’s Symphony, Original Score (Student)
Kip Andersen and Chris O’Connell (USA), Join the Club, LGBTQ+
Laura Angiulli (Italy), I KNOW YOU, Women Filmmakers
Lynn H. Elliott (USA), Only You Can Save Her, Pilot Episode for THE BOY WHO EARNED HIS MAGIC, Television – Pilot Program
Marjoe Aguiling (USA), Kill Two Birds, Movie Trailer
Michelle Danner (USA), The Italians, Ensemble Cast
Nick DeSimone (USA), FULL THROTTLE PARADISE, Film Short
Pamela Tomlinson (Canada), By Hook or By Cook (III), Disability Issues
Paul Hendy (United Kingdom), The Choice, Actress: Leading (Rita Simons as Billie Angell)
Rebecca Hardy (United Kingdom), After the Evidence – The Short Film, Women Filmmakers
Samaritan’s Purse (USA), One Morning at Dawn, Documentary Feature
Sandy Thorne (Australia), BEYOND THE RAZOR WIRE, Script / Writer
Stephen Bigot (France), HESTIA 19, Film Short, Post-Production Overall
Thomas Nauw and Dennis Bots (Germany), Betrayal, Costume Design
Tung Kun Liao (Taiwan), Flight – Exploring the Life of Birds, Documentary Feature, Nature / Environment / Wildlife
Wang Wang (China), Never, Film Short, Editing (Wang Wang and Liu Wa)
William R.A. Rush (USA), Group, Direction, Ensemble Cast, Film Feature, Casting
Xi Wen (United Kingdom), Grow in the Wild, Asian (Student), Film Short (Student)
Click the Below for Award of Merit winners!
Click the Below for Award of Recognition winners!
