Best Feature Documentary
No More History Without Us
Priscilla Regis Brasil
(Brazil)
Jury Statement
As media becomes shorter, our memory is also drawn to something immediate and new. History is forgotten, while the impact is neglected. This film is a brave, brilliant, and meticulous undertaking of narrative change by and for Amazonian, which resonates throughout the Global South.
Best Short Documentary
Nusa Ina
Anne Jan Sijbrandij
(Netherlands)
Jury Statement
We were moved by this film and the plight of displaced people so well told in the film as the reason short documentaries are so important, they are using film to preserve history and as a form of activism, which gives them an enduring power.
Best Short Narrative
The Masterpiece
Alex Lora
(Spain)
Jury Statement
The film’s nuanced narrative and underlying tension subtly reveal the power dynamics and prejudices at play, as the immigrants hold something the wealthy couple desires. This complexity is combined with solid performance and direction.
Best Feature Narrative
The Gospel of the Beast
Sheron Dayoc
(Philippines)
Jury Statement
This film is engaging due to its strong direction, well-written script, and impressive cinematography. The narrative arc, where the protagonist grapples with a moral dilemma before ultimately choosing the right path, is particularly compelling and resonates deeply.
Special Jury Award
(Short Documentary)
Dhvani – The Sound Around
Anurag Dwivedi
(India)
Jury Statement
The film was engaging throughout. It was well told, the production values were high, it showcased India beautifully and was fascinating.
Special Jury Award
(Feature Documentary)
Porcelain War
Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev
(United States)
Jury Statement
Many films about war focus on the devastating impact of war. This film is very unique and inspiring because it invites us to see Ukraine from the point of view of love. The love portrayed here is deep, multi-dimensional, and bitter-sweet. Through their art, storytelling, and love, we see Ukraine through the resilience of its people, we see peace as something worth fighting for.
Gary L Hayes Award for Emerging Indonesian Filmmaker
HUMA
Kezia Alexandra
(Indonesia)
Jury Statement
Kezia Alexandra embodies the spirit of this award—a burgeoning director and multifaceted artist whose distinctive style and visionary storytelling are reshaping Indonesia’s cinematic landscape. Established in honor of Gary Hayes, a pioneer in the industry whose passion helped young aspiring Indonesian creatives fulfill their potential.
Committee Choice:
Feature Narrative
Asog
Seán Devlin
(Canada)
Committee Statement
Through masterful storytelling, the audience is invited to the world of characters, experiencing their emotions intimately and breaking down societal boundaries. In a landscape where various agendas vie for attention, Devlin’s work achieves in one film what many associations strive for: fostering understanding and acceptance.
Committee Choice: Feature Documentary
Point of Change
Rebecca Coley
(United Kingdom)
Committee Statement
The film takes you into an entirely different culture and community then elevates the significance of this modern cautionary tale through its connection with Kevin Lovett. Point of Change isn’t just any documentary—it’s a captivating, dramatic feature that draws you in with its unique storytelling.
Sustainable Film Award
Kewang — Nature’s Ancient Guardians
Indah Rufiati
(Indonesia)
Committee Statement
The new category focuses on the power of storytelling to tackle pressing sustainability challenges and this film doesn’t just raise awareness, it inspires viewers to take action and make a positive difference.
Aicef Cross-Cultural Award
Sculpting the Giant
Banu Wirandoko, Rheza Arden Wiguna
Committee Statement
The Cross-Cultural Film Award is presented to a pair of first or second-time feature filmmakers whose work robustly embraces cross-cultural themes.