Film Independent has announced the winners of its three Emerging Filmmaker Awards at its annual Spirit Awards nominee brunch held on Friday (1/6) at Hotel Casa del Mar. Spirit Awards Honorary Chair Lily Gladstone (Killers of the Flower Moon, The Unknown Country) and Colman Domingo (Rustin, The Color Purple) served as hosts for the event and handed out the honors. Winners for the remaining categories will be revealed at the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards on Sunday, February 25.
“Understanding the enormous challenges independent artists are facing, it’s essential that they are provided the resources to move forward with their artistic visions,” said Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent. “The Emerging Filmmaker Awards provide vital support to these talented artists, enabling them to continue to develop new work and thrive as singular artists.”
The Someone to Watch Award presented by Stella Artois was given to Monica Sorelle, director of Mountains. The award recognizes a talented first-time narrative filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition. The award, which is in its 30th year, includes a $25,000 unrestricted grant. The finalists for the award included Joanna Arnow for The Feeling That the Time for Doing Something Has Passed and Laura Moss for Birth/Rebirth.
The Truer Than Fiction Award was presented to Set Hernandez, director of unseen. The award is presented to a first-time director of non-fiction features who has not received significant recognition. The award is in its 29th year and includes a $25,000 unrestricted grant. Jesse Short Bull and Laura Tomaselli for Lakota Nation vs The United States and Sierra Urich for Joonam were finalists for the award.
Finally, the Producers Award went to Monique Walton. The award honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity, and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The annual award, in its 27th year, includes a $25,000 unrestricted grant funded by Bulleit Frontier Whiskey. Finalists were Rachael Fung and Graham Swon.
Advanced Imaging Society cancels Lumiere Awards ceremony
In response to the tragic events and widespread impact of the recent fires in Southern California, the Advanced Imaging Society (AIS) has made the difficult decision to cancel the 15th Annual Lumiere Awards Luncheon, originally scheduled for Friday, February 7, at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
“Our thoughts are with all those in our community who have been affected by these devastating fires,” said AIS president Jim Chabin. “In the past few days, we’ve been heartbroken to learn of friends and colleagues who have lost homes and cherished memories. At the same time, we’ve been deeply moved by stories of members offering shelter, resources, and support to those in need. This spirit of solidarity and generosity reflects the very heart of our industry.”
While the luncheon ceremony will not take place as planned, the AIS remains committed to celebrating the extraordinary creative achievements of the past year. Winners of the 15th Annual Lumiere Awards will be announced on February 7.
The Advanced Imaging Society extends its gratitude to all members and partners for their understanding and support as we stand together during this challenging time.
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