This morning saw our shortlisted entries for the 6th Annual International Short Film Competition screened at the Broadway Cinema. The standard of entries this year was truly outstanding and we are very proud to have been able to show such a diverse and high quality range of films to a local audience, including two with Manx roots.
After much deliberation, our panel decided on the following winners. They were announced at our Gala Awards ceremony this evening, presented by Mark Kermode.
Best Comedy – The Driving Seat. Our panel had a tough choice in this category, but The Driving Seat is a very worthy winner. Writer and director Phil Lowe was in attendance to receive the award from Mark Kermode.
Best Animation – A Love Story. Unfortunately, director Anushka Kishani couldn’t join us today to receive her award for this beautiful and highly original animation, but she sent the following message:
I would have loved to be there to receive the award – thank you so much from the whole team! It’s so great to hear that the film has been well received
Best Documentary – The Residue of A Relationship. This witty documentary explores love and loss in a beautiful,. Writer Brett Chapman joined us for the festival and was here to accept his award – I think he had a room full of fans, too!
Best Fiction – Chippy Tea. This went down brilliantly at the festival and we were lucky to have producer Fabian Martinez here to accept his award.
Best of Fest -Each year, we ask Mark to choose his favourite film. This year he selected Pitfall by Manx Filmaker Ben Desmond. He noted that the film was extremely ambitious and well executed, managing to hit all of the notes it set out to.
This years’ Audience Choice Award went to Second to None. This animation had an incredible reaction from the audience at this mornings screening and was a very clear winner.
A huge congratulations to all of our winners – the selection was truly outstanding this year. Thanks to everyone who attended our events – we’re off for a glass of wine, but we can’t wait to welcome you all back this time next year.
-IOMFF