Essex International Film Festival Unveils Winners and Hosts Red-Carpet Gala
The Essex International Film Festival celebrated its inaugural event with a glamorous red-carpet gala, showcasing exceptional cinematic talent. The launch event took place on March 27 at the Curzon Cinema in Colchester, drawing prominent figures from the film industry. The festival has garnered the support of acclaimed actress Dame Helen Mirren and featured the world premiere of artists Gilbert and George’s film, “Gilbert and George Day Tripping Forever!” This documentary, set in Southend, delves into profound life questions and existential themes.
Star-Studded Attendance
Among the notable attendees was Essex native Iain B MacDonald, a Hollywood producer and director who co-directed the festival. Currently working on a new Marvel television series in New York, MacDonald’s presence underscored the festival’s significance. Other notable figures included Caroline Norbury MBE, CEO of Creative UK, and various representatives from Essex County Council’s Cultural Ambassadors, including Busayo Ige, Elsa James, and Councillor Mark Durham, who serves as the Cabinet Member for The Arts, Heritage, and Culture.
Global Participation and Award Ceremony
The festival received submissions from around the globe, with 50 films making the shortlist for 17 awards. Four of those shortlisted films were produced by Essex filmmakers, who collectively secured four prestigious accolades during the awards ceremony held at Chelmsford Theatre on March 30.
Best Essex Film Award
The award for Best Essex Film was presented to “The Last Dance,” directed by Hayden McLean, a Woodford Green native who filmed in Loughton. McLean described the win as a “blessing,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his work and receive recognition as a first-time filmmaker who financed and starred in his own project. “The Last Dance” tells the poignant story of Linford “Fox” Wilson, a club owner faced with the impending loss of his beloved establishment due to compulsory purchase by the council. The film highlights the struggles of the Caribbean community and culminates in a momentous celebration of their resilience against gentrification.
Other Notable Winners
The Best LGBTQ+ film award went to “Smokescreen,” directed by Nathan Hubble, who expressed his excitement about the festival’s debut in his home county. This film explores the pressures of reputation in a high school setting, as a character navigates the fallout of a viral nude photo. Best Experimental Film was awarded to “Estuary Winds,” directed by Tom Scott, who captured the essence of the Thames Estuary through his artistic lens. Best Documentary honors went to “Harlow Cares,” a collaborative dance film created with local community members. The festival’s top honor, Film of the Festival, was awarded to “Mouse!” by Max Fisher, who also received the Boudicca award, a distinctive ceramic figure symbolizing the strength and storytelling essence of cinema.
Complete Winners List
The full list of winners includes:
– Best Drama – “Man-Made” by Plum Stupple-Harris
– Best Comedy – “Comme Les Cinq Doigts de la Main” by Nicolas Berya
– Best Horror/Thriller – “Spoor” by Sunita Soliar & Statten Roeg
– Best Sci-fi – “Dreams” by Oran Franco
– Best Animation – “The God Man” by Andrew Foerster
– Best Student Film – “Pas de Deux” by Sofia Soto
– Best International Film – “The Wake” by Eddie Diamandi (Australia)
– Best UK Film – “Mouse!” by Max Fisher
– Best Actor – Karl Collins (“The Last Dance”)
– Best Actress – Lexi Lancaster (“Hard Times”)
– Best Cinematography – Jon Muschamp (“Whippy”)
– Best Director – Sunita Soliar & Statten Roeg (“Spoor”)
Support from the Essex County Council
The festival was made possible by the Essex County Council Arts and Cultural Fund. Councillor Mark Durham emphasized the event’s role in highlighting the burgeoning film industry in Essex, noting that it not only showcased local talent but also attracted international creators. He remarked on the economic benefits that film and television productions bring to the area, crediting Essex’s appealing features, including its proximity to London and diverse landscapes.
Future Aspirations
Festival co-directors Charles Sharman-Cox and Lily Streames expressed their pride in successfully launching the Essex International Film Festival. They highlighted the significance of having renowned artists like Gilbert and George premiere their film at the event, along with the support from notable figures such as Dame Helen Mirren and a Marvel director. They noted the impressive range of films submitted, reflecting the vibrant creative community in Essex, and eagerly anticipate future editions of the festival. Tysers Live, specialists in Entertainment & Media Insurance, proudly sponsored the Gala Reception and Screening at this landmark festival.
