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An intimate character study set in the overlooked immigrant communities in Athens, this striking, assured feature debut immerses us in the inner world of a young woman struggling to find her place against the expectations of her own community and the stark realities facing those living on the margins. It’s a journey rarely documented on screen, filled with mystery and deeply felt emotion. We are thrilled to recognize HOLY EMY with Best Film.
This filmmaker stood out to us immediately as an exciting new voice. She creates a beguiling world that skillfully weaves mysticism and genre shadings into a finely-drawn, grounded character study. It’s remarkably nuanced work in a first feature, and we believe that Araceli Lemos is a bold new voice in independent cinema.
Angeliki Papoulia conveys the entire emotional range of motherhood, from anxiety, guilt, and repression to joy and confidence. In her subtle portrayal, she shows how inherited trauma can implode work, friendship, and family. We recognize her accomplishment in Patchwork with the award for Best Performance.
For its true cinematic quality expressing the transcending relation between the living and their dead parents and beloved, which is a fundamental part of Greek culture and the Greek inner soul, the Special Jury Mention goes to “Memento”.
Every element of filmmaking, from haunting costume design to engrossing production design, is meticulously used to tell a complex story born from a simple question. An ambitious and inventive short film that shows a director in full command of their craft, this film stayed with us and continued to buzz in our minds afterwards. We award an honorable mention to Brutalia, Days of Labour.
Memoir for a Veering Storm receives an honorable mention for its timely depiction of a school girl who must surreptitiously receive an abortion. Shot on film, this well crafted narrative addresses highly sensitive subject matter with empathy and grace, while confronting the stark realism young women face in making such a serious life choice.