The International Jury was both inspired and impressed by the range, distinctiveness, and outstanding quality of this year’s daring programme of international short films. Choosing just two winners proved to be a difficult task.
International Jury:
Aras Amiri
Laura Hudson
Michael de la Haye
We are proud to announce the winners:
Tony Langlois Prix d’Honneur: The Dawn by Alicia Mendy
A speculative fiction that delivers an anti-colonial critique of economic inequality and state control through innovative filmmaking that allows alternative perspectives. It combines the precursors of cinema, art forms such as dance, music, storytelling, and imagery to create a complex form with an inter-play of time that opens new dimensions of reality and truth. Set in a society ruled by fear and crisis, the central character chooses to break free—to dream once more. Alicia Mendy is a young filmmaker who inspires a collective belief in the possibility of change.
Esprit de la Fête: La Perra by Carla Melo Gampert
This short animation is an uncompromising and sometimes disturbing insight into the subject of violence against women and their sexuality. Through the medium of animation and the metaphor of animals, the film conveys difficult, often painful experiences with deep emotional resonance and empathy—transcending the confines of conventional morality.
The exceptional technique and artistry of the animation stand out as a bold, independent creative voice that challenges the audience to reflect deeply on this urgent and painful subject.
Special Mention: We were particularly moved by the power and authenticity of 2720 by Basil da Cunha, which receives our Special Mention of the competition.
Lucy Abraham and Molly Byrne, director and writer of price-winner Swim
Passemithe Award – Best Jersey and Channel Islands Short Film
Swim directed by Lucy Abraham
Swim is a finely written and directed film of human relationships with each other and with the natural world. A female-driven and female-centred film of dialogue, silences, and immersion. Sensitively filmed and showcasing strong female relationships in its beautiful Jersey setting.
*Special Mention
Retrograde directed by Dean Porter
The Jury was impressed by this accomplished animation, creating a coherent sci-fi world with interesting human and non-human characters.
The Jersey & Channel Islands showcase is curated by Mick Hannigan of IndieCork Festival, Ireland
Our awards are made by Jersey artist Bruce Labey.