SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

For the beauty of its quiet and powerful storytelling revealing its character's dignity in the face of immense challenges.

Film of uncommon skill that showcases two compelling characters and pulses to a dazzling and irresistible beat.

From one of the darkest corners of the world emerge a film that explores the affection, brotherhood and love and a central character whose conviction drove a generation of young people to fight for what they believed in. Despite the inhumane conditions, the filmmaking team was able to deliver a beautifully crafted film while working with elements that were totally out of their control.

Intuitive Filmmaking - For the portrayal of a complex character as told through remarkably intimate moments.

Use of Animation -For profoundly artful animation that deepens our understanding of character and story.

Musical Score -We want to recognize the mysterious and evocative musical score created by the Austin Texas band, the Octopus Project.

Breakthrough Talent -The movie with a reverence, audacity and a sense of humor that was unique in its category, for the arrival of original and exciting new voice in American cinema.

Cinematic Bravery -This film combines true visionary filmmaking which your adventure to confront some of the most complex and important issues of our planet. Replacing the traditional camera tripod with the dangers yet profound human cinematography, the filmmakers parachute their audience into some of the most bizarre, deranged and beautiful places cinema has ever seen. The result is a deeply troubling masterpiece with glimpses of pure joy and hope.

Ensemble -A delightful ensemble performance in which the director brought its own unique universe into cinema.

For capturing a historic moment from the perspective of multiple subjects in an intricate and engaging way.

A director who took us to a new strange foreign world. Directing his first narrative feature film in a language he doesn't even speak, a beautiful poetic film. We're impressed with the authenticity, the integrity and the control we saw in this film.

Arguably being the most exciting film in competition, it ruthlessly deconstructs two very different art forms - music and documentary - yet takes nothing away from the everyday reality or magic of its main subject. This is documentary storytelling at its most visionary and mind blowing.

For the graceful creation of striking imagery with deep sensitivity to the moment.

With beautiful texture and sculpted lighting, it illuminates an unromantic world and makes it elegant.

This film delivered a truly exquisite and striking cinematic experience through light and composition. The cinematographer's eye tenderly explores the visual extremes of the film's young protaganist and the harsh yet gorgeous landscape that surrounds them.

For a screenplay that skillfully writes the line between heartbreaking drama and side-splitting humor in a story that keeps us invested because the writers care deeply about all the characters.

For its depiction of a molecular biologist and his lab partner who uncovers starkling evidence that could fundamentally change society as we know it.

For the masterful interweaving of desperate and complex elements to create an immensely powerful story.

Truth and documentary editing can be opposing forces. Rarely do we, as a jury, see a film confront this paradox with such boldness and unexpected authenticity. Constructing a narrative and a cinematic reality that seamlessly blends performance and storytelling with deep emotional truths.

For unique vision.

For non-fiction.

For direction and ensemble cast.