The Man Who Saved the Internet with a Sunflower – Ori Yardeni
Ori Yardeni (Israel), The Man Who Saved the Internet with a Sunflower, Film Feature – Internationally renowned Yardeni unveils the dramatic and untold story of Rob Ryan, the visionary entrepreneur who saved the Internet from collapsing in the 90s, which ultimately transformed our lives in every field. Now, he’s on a mission to save the Internet from itself. This captivating film delves into the rise and falls of Ryan, an innovative engineer whose Sunflower Code, a tool to discover one’s true vocation, revolutionized the digital world and continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs. The first in a trilogy, this film explores the future of technology and humanity, setting the stage for an epic saga about the Internet, AI, and the destiny of mankind. A talented cast delivers exceptional performances. Stars: Martin Delaney (Zero Dark Thirty, Flags Of Our Fathers, Beowulf and Grendel, Now You See Me 2), Leo Hatton (H&M by Wes Anderson), Troy Hewitt (Rye Lane), Michael Curran-Dorsano (Django, The Last Ship), Sophie Hopkins (Dr. Who’s spin-off Class from BBC).
Three – Nayla Al Khaja
Nayla Al Khaja (United Arab Emirates), Three, Film Feature / Islamic Theme – In the heart-wrenching battle for her son’s life, a mother’s love knows no bounds. When her shy 12-year-old boy falls ill and begins hearing sinister inner voices driving him to violence, she turns to unconventional sources for help. A Western doctor must cast aside his rational thinking to collaborate with mystical mullahs and partake in intense, unconventional rituals. Set against the vibrant backdrop of a modern Middle Eastern city, this gripping drama delves into possession and desperation, with unexpected twists and striking cinematography that bring the story to life. Al Khaja, the first female Film Director in the United Arab Emirates, and her deft direction supports a talented cast bringing to life captivating characters. Stars: Jefferson Hall (Oppenheimer, House of the Dragon, Tenet), Noura Alabed (Wiladah), Mari Al Halyan (On Borrowed Time), Mohannad Bin Huthail (Rashash), Saud Alzarooni and Faten Ahmed as the suffering and determined mother.
Langobardi-Grimoaldo, the First Friulian King – Sandra Lopez Cabrera
Sandra Lopez Cabrera (Italy), Langobardi – Grimoaldo, the First Friulian King, Doc Short – This docufilm explores the remarkable life of Grimoaldo, a noble scion of the Alboino lineage born in Cividale around 600 A.D., who rose to become the first Lombard king of Friulian descent. Through his epic journey, we unravel the historical tapestry of the 7th-century Peninsula and Friuli. Presented as a cinematic storytelling experience, the film allows audiences to grasp historical and ethnographic insights into Lombard heritage. Expert interpretations and exquisitely crafted reenactments vividly bring to life the legacy of the times.
Kalman Apple, Natalin Avci and High Vibe Pictures (USA), Lucy Lion, Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising – Oscar-nominee Apple presents a compelling short about resilience and reclamation. A single mom, rough around the edges, faces a life-changing job interview but lacks childcare for her young daughter. Forced to make tough choices, she discovers her true strength. Stars: Natalin Avci, Nick W. Nicholson, John F. Knight.
Damian Walshe-Howling (Australia), Unspoken, Film Short – Expert direction and powerful performances bring 1979 Australia to life. Amid passionate protests for Croatian independence, Marina must reveal her secret love affair with her Australian boyfriend. As escalating violence invades her childhood home, their loyalty to heritage is tested with devastating consequences and betrayal for her family. Stars Goran Grgić, Kat Dominis, Tom Wilson.
Harriet Marin Jones (France), King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones, Doc Feature – Produced by Oscar-nominee Quincy Jones and Emmy-winner Debbie Allen, the doc chronicles Edward Jones, a charismatic African American who found financial success in Depression-era Chicago. The tale of Policy Kings, love, violence, mafia, and prison is riveting. Fascinating insights, interviews, and creative graphics make it compelling and memorable.
Dante Bellini (USA), Demons & Dragans. Mark Patinkin’s Cancer Journey, Doc Short – Emmy-winner Bellini’s gripping doc on Pulitzer Prize finalist Mark Patinkin’s battle with kidney cancer. Patinkin’s life becomes a series of cliffs, making his story center stage and the writer is now the subject. This raw, unflinching film beautifully captures his profound journey of healing, life, family, and love. Well-crafted and touching.
Chris Haifley (USA), Getting Her, TV Program / Series – A hipster lesbian Casanova takes her dorky best friend, a chauvinist and virgin, under her wing to teach him how to romance ladies; the goal, lose his virginity before their 10-year high school reunion. A witty script and authentic performances. Stars: Ilea Alfaro (The Newer Girl), Caleb Emory (Good Girls), Mouzam Makker (Vampire Diaries).
Tim Gray (USA), Final Iwo Jima, Documentary Feature – Narrated by Emmy-winner Jim Nantz, this doc captures a poignant journey to Iwo Jima, site of a savage WWII battle. A 100-year-old Marine vet returns where he was wounded in 1945, while the son of another pieces together his father’s untold war story. Filmed on location, it blends interviews, archival footage, and recreations to explore the island’s past and present. Aired PBS.
Artur Muharremi (France), EXIT 2- THE GAME, Animation – In this gripping sequel to the poignant tale of Pencil, our protagonist navigates a dystopian future dominated by mind control. Amidst this bleak landscape, he witnesses a brutal arena match where sacrifice and gruesome games are the main form of entertainment. This powerful parable compels viewers to reflect on the modern era’s demands and the sacrifices still required.
Brian Foyster (USA), The Last Take, LGBTQ+ Theme – A Hollywood icon faces his secret love for another man, exposing hidden stories from a repressive era. This poignant tale reveals the heartache and resilience of those who loved against societal norms. An evocative and compelling exploration of forbidden love. Achingly authentic performances. Robert John Burke, Richard Fancy, Austin Basis, Brian Foyster.
Ling Han (China), Chain, Animation – A visually beautiful 3D animation featuring charming characters, a sophisticated environment and a sad ending with a message. Inspired by the Chinese proverb “The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind”. It reflects the obstacles we must overcome in our life journey—resisting immediate temptations to gain the strength to face greater challenges.
Alan Williams (USA), Serengeti: Journey to the Heart of Africa, Original Score
Bear Kosik and Erika Lupo (USA), Hiding Bodies, Film Short, Direction (Erika Lupo)
Brenda Lee (United Kingdom), Fortune Cookies, Asian Theme
Brian Depalma (USA), Jungle Out There, Music Video
Brian Foyster (USA), The Last Take, Art Direction, Cinematography
Chris Haifley (USA), Getting Her, Actress: Leading (Ilea Alfaro as Delvin), Direction
Damian Walshe-Howling (Australia), Unspoken, Direction, Cinematography
David Pountain (United Kingdom), Charlie Chimp Considers Regret, Animation
Gavin Gui (United Kingdom), The Veiled Greed, Animation
H James Gilmore (USA), Fielding Dreams: A Celebration of Baseball Scouts, Documentary Feature, Sports, History / Biographical
Harriet Marin Jones (France), King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones, Direction, History / Biographical
Jefery Levy (USA), ME, Actor: Leading (Jefery Levy as Levy), Direction (Jefery Levy), Film Feature
Jefery Levy (USA), The Key, Direction, Film Feature, Script / Writer (Jefery Levy), Actor: Leading (David Arquette as Jack), Actress: Leading (Bai Ling as Ida)
Jennifer McKnight (USA), Idiopathy, Script / Writer
Jiayi Tang (USA), STORM, Animation (Student)
JJ Hollingsworth, Nikolay Khozyainov and Kimber Rudo (USA), Come To The Table, Original Score, Choreography
John L. Potash (USA), CIA Drugs R Us! A Drugs as Weapons… Sequel, Documentary Feature
Jorge “Jokes” Yanes (USA), Silent Partners, Actor: Leading (Ciro Dapagio as Valentine)
Judson Vaughan (Spain), We Will Find YOU, Direction
Kalman Apple, Natalin Avci and High Vibe Pictures (USA), Lucy the Lion, Script / Writer (Natalin Avci), Actress: Leading (Natalin Avci as Lucy)
Katie Goodman (USA), The Moms, Women Filmmaker
Kelly Moneymaker (USA), Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life, Documentary Short, Direction (Kelly Moneymaker), Cinematography (Tom Trainor), Original Song (Kelly Moneymaker and Gabriel Moses)
Kelly Moneymaker (USA), Reclamation, Music Video, Direction (Kelly Moneymaker), Original Song (Kelly Moneymaker and Gabriel Moses)
Kevin Irvine (USA), DRAG QUEENS OF EMERALIS, Script / Writer
Kristen Elizabeth Snyder (USA), One Dream Too Many, Documentary Feature
Laura Angiulli (Italy), I KNOW YOU, Film Feature (Student)
Liliana M. Molina (USA), ARRANCA, Film Short, Women Filmmaker, Actress: Leading (Johanna Rosaly as Carmen)
Ling Han (China), CHAIN, Asian Filmmaker, Asian Theme, Film Short, Original Score, Sound Editing / Sound Mixing, Set Design
Lynn Elliott (USA), My Greatest Enemy–Myself! Episode 3, The Boy Who Earned His Magic, Script / Writer, Television – Program / Series, Web Series
Michele Josia (Italy), I Follow You, Original Score
Mila Perkins (USA), The Rising, Actress: Leading (Dionne Gipson as Kendra)
Mokhless Al-Hariri (USA), Chanting of the Dunes, Documentary Feature
Nayla Al Khaja (United Arab Emirates), Three, Islamic Filmmaker, Islamic Theme, Women Filmmakers
Patrick John Donnelly (USA), Cause Celebre, Television – Pilot Program
Peter Herlan (USA), Crossed, Script / Writer
Peter Herlan (USA), Master Guns’, Script / Writer
Peter Herlan (USA), Halfway Game, Script / Writer (Story by Stephen Kriter & Peter Herlan)
Philly Chick Pictures and Curt Wiser (USA), A Voice In Violet, Actress: Leading (Brooke Lewis Bellas as Violet), Script / Writer (Curt Wiser), Casting (Alison Buck)
Rich Devaney (USA), Unraveling, Web Series
Rob Beemer, Giancarlo Canavesio and Laura Obiols (USA), Ibiza’s Regenerative Revolution, Documentary Short, Nature / Environment / Wildlife, Use of Film / Video for Social Change
Robert Edmonds (United Kingdom), MERAKI, Documentary Feature
Sandra Lopez Cabrera (Italy), Langobardi – Grimoaldo, the First Friulian King, History / Biographical, Women Filmmaker
Smithy Sipes (USA), Artistry & Innovation: REIMAGINING THE NUTCRACKER, Documentary Short
Steve Horswill Johnston (USA), Sarah, Christian Filmmaker, Christian Theme
Sue Ann Pien (USA), Once More, Like Rain Man, Filmmaker with Disability, Disability Issues, Film Short, Direction, Experimental
William Bright (USA), The CareGiver, Film Short, Direction, Cinematography
Xaque Gruber (USA), SALLYWOOD, Actress: Leading (Sally Kirkland as Sally)
