Daniel Sheire & Jessica Suarez – Conservation and Recovery of the Scarlet Macaw in Mexico
Daniel Sheire and Jessica Suarez (USA), Conservation and Recovery of the Scarlet Macaw in Mexico, Nature / Environment / Wildlife – Emmy-nominee Sheire and Nat Geo Explorer Suarez deliver a potent doc about the Scarlet Macaw, a vibrant symbol of the Mexican rainforest, who is sadly disappearing from the ecosystem. With stunning cinematography (Tim Laman, Russell Laman, Eric Liner) and compassionate expert interviews – this doc explores the tireless efforts of Natura y Ecosistemas Mexicanos (NEM) to save the last remaining viable population of these iconic birds. Facing the constant threat of poaching, NEM works diligently to rescue hatchlings from vulnerable nests before they are looted. By forging partnerships with local communities, they have developed a network of dedicated individuals to locate and protect macaw nests. This compelling, and tightly crafted film showcases the resilience of both people and wildlife in a united fight to preserve a species that has long symbolized the beauty and diversity of the region’s natural heritage. From the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Conservation Media.
Ruth Streeter – Playing with Incredible Minds
Ruth Streeter (USA), Playing with Incredible Minds, Doc Short – Gorgeously crafted by Emmy & Peabody winner Ruth Streeter (60 minutes) with Co-Producer and editor Emmy-winner Gary VandenBergh – it profiles the oldest running symphony orchestra in the U.S., the Harvard Radcliffe Orchestra. It follows colorful and passionate conductor Federico Cortese, as he works with a group of exceptionally talented young musicians. The film delves into how Cortese nurtures their creativity and musical talent, exploring the intersection of intellectual development and artistry. It highlights the intense and transformative process of creating music, emphasizing the impact that the orchestra’s demanding environment has on both the individual and collective growth of the young musicians. Through this journey, the documentary examines themes of passion, discipline, and the development of extraordinary minds within the world of classical music. Captivating interviews, outstanding editing and sound design.
Chris John Georgenes (USA), Book!, Animation – The timeless riddle, “Why did the chicken cross the road?” comes to life in this imaginative animated short. Bursting with vivid characters, expressive animation, dynamic music, and a lovable voice-over by Andrea Rose Georgenes, it delivers a perfectly paced, engaging story. Background art by Marisa Torres, music by Munk Duane of Bad Stella Studios, crafted by Xencelabs.
Jessica Walsh and Brendan Walsh (USA), Seeing the Unseen: Aquatic Invaders & What’s at Stake, Nature/Environment/Wildlife. Emmy-winning Walsh’s compelling doc, with stunning cinematography, it reveals the threat of invasive species in Lake Erie. These invaders disrupt ecosystems, out-compete natives, and transform habitats. It showcases restoration efforts inspiring action to protect this treasure. West Pennsylvania Conservancy.
Brad Courtemanche (USA), Trumpet Gumbo, Film Short – After winning the country’s largest TV cooking show, Chef Buddy Bontemps finds himself under the tutelage of one of today’s greatest chefs. Having never been in a perfectionist’s kitchen, he gets devoured. Intense delivery with dramatic performances. John Fiore (Sopranos), Brandon Scales (Patriots Day), Anthony Hoang (Fallout).
Tony Doupe (USA), A Fateful Weekend, Film Short – JFK’s assassination as seen through the eyes of a seven-year-old. With little understanding of “the President,” he tries to process the grief of his family and the nation. The weekend contrasts the tragic loss with a moment of joy as they celebrate his brother’s sixth birthday the next day. Poignant juxtaposition, sweetly emotional, touching narration Tony Doupe (Winter Island).
Casey Washington (USA), The Hardway, TV Pilot Program – Two brothers that run a bail bonds, private eye and high-end repo business, get embroiled in an investigation to take down a criminal organization. A well-crafted blend of action, drama and comedic elements. Entertaining performances by Richard Leacock (Star Trek: Picard) and Viv Leacock (When Calls the Heart).
Shireen Rahimi (Bermuda), Heart of the Sea, Film Short – Well paced and crafted it highlights Bermuda’s vibrant waters and rich culture, exploring the island’s pioneering blue economy, vital biodiversity and ocean science hub. Guided by scientists, poets, and leaders, we dive into breathtaking seascapes and shipwrecks teeming with life. Interwoven is the Gombey dance symbolizing Bermuda’s resilient spirit, conservation and growth.
John Erasmus (Australia), The Retirement Plan, Film Short – Chloe, a young mother in the Victorian suburbs, is trying to hold her family together. With a laid-off husband and a wild daughter, she plans to secure their future by writing a tell-all about her past with the undercover police. But on her daughter’s birthday, her worlds collide as motherhood clashes with her cop past. Ayesha Gibson (Savage River) and Greg Caine (Neighbours).
Jun Yu (Korea), Lim Mart, Webisode – Peace Lim inherited his grandfather’s quirky and difficult temperament, which strained both his career and love life. After his grandfather’s death, Peace inherits his massive supermarket. Now, amidst eccentric staff and chaos, his life becomes even more tumultuous. An entertaining and light-hearted comedy with a touch of poignancy. Starring Woo-Min Son, Da-Hae Seo, Sung-Il Jeon.
Ziv Sheffer (Israel), Alone in the Room, Film Short (Student) – Uncle Adam comes to look after Tamar, his rebellious teen niece whom he hasn’t seen in a long time. The meeting brings up old and painful charges, but also creates an opportunity for confrontation and redemption. Stars Dani Drimer (Shakshouka) with an achingly authentic performance by Imri Biton (The House on Fin Street).
Abigail Deser (USA), Heisenberg’s Bedroom, Actor: Leading (Jeff Perry as Alex), Actress: Leading (Melissa Baird as Georgie)
Alan Williams (USA), Serengeti, Original Score
Amelia Rich (USA), Kindred Spirits, Women Theme (Student)
Ana Maria Mendez Salgado, Karu-Karu (Australia), Wishes: Windows & Nests, Art Direction (Ana Maria Mendez Salgado)
Andy Teirstein (USA), El Niño Mudo, Original Score
Autumn Libengood (USA), Bleeding Heart, Viewer Impact: Content / Message Delivery
Bortica Andrei Christian Adrian (Romania), A SHORT STORY ABOUT COMMUNISM, Cinematography (Student) (Stefan Popescu Dolj), Film Short (Student), Liberation / Social Justice / Protest (Student), Original Score
Carlos Puig Mundó (Spain), The Slam Dunk, Disability Issues
Casey Washington (USA), The Hardway, Webisode
Christel Veraart (USA), Santa Fe & Esmeralda – Crossroads, Original Score
Christian Bastiansen (Norway), Fanget (Trapped), Original Score
Dave Majcher and Stefano Ceccarelli (USA), Attila – A Documentary, Documentary Short
Edward B Kessel and Joe Bartell(USA), Not Today Billy, Music Video, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Erfan Parsapour (Iran), Nowhere, Direction
Gary Francis Quigg (USA), The Foot: A Community Remembered, Documentary Short
Javier Ruiz (Mexico), Hurricane, Original Score
Julian Morales (USA), Good Night, Actor: Leading (Frank Egusquiza as Daniel)
Jun Yu, SLX2F (Korea), Lim Mart, Comedy Program / Series
Le-Ho Wong (China), Tenet of Loyalty, Asian Filmmaker
Lori Watt (Canada), Henderson, Editing (Mauri Bernstein)
Lynn H. Elliott (USA), Only You Can Save Her, Pilot Episode for THE BOY WHO EARNED HIS MAGIC, Script / Writer
Maria Maya (USA), BITTER CRUMBS, Women Theme
Matthew Fridg (USA), The Homeless Pastor: A Legacy of Love and Hope, Christian Theme, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising, Documentary Short
Michael Ragen (USA), The Stargate, Art Direction (Tristan Seniuk)
Mike Hill (Australia), Conquering Skin Cancer, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising
Rachel B Farha (USA), Rebecoming Me: Falling Through Foster Care, Documentary Short
Rebecca Coley, Green Eye Productions (Jersey), Lé Viage, Original Score (Student) (Cameron Crocker)
Ronald Lamont Canfield, Ronald L Canfield Productions (USA), A Fateful Weekend, Script / Writer (Ronald Lamont Canfield)
Ruben Machado (USA), Voicemail, Film Short
Ruth Streeter (USA), Playing With Incredible Minds, Editing, Women Filmmakers
Ryan Kurt Whiting (USA), The Dog Days, Film Short
Sean Cygan (USA), Operation Talus, Animation (Student), Sound Editing / Sound Mixing (Student), Direction (Student)
Shireen Rahimi (Bermuda), Heart of the Sea, African American Filmmaker, Women Filmmakers
Ziv Sheffer (Israel), Alone In The Room, Jewish Filmmaker
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