{"id":36639,"date":"2025-03-14T15:49:54","date_gmt":"2025-03-14T14:49:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/news\/palmares-2025\/"},"modified":"2025-05-12T17:14:40","modified_gmt":"2025-05-12T15:14:40","slug":"palmares-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/festival\/news\/palmares-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"2025 Awards"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n \u201c We\u2019re proud to see that the winning films are not only powerful and innovative in cinematic terms, but also warrant international support given the filmmakers\u2019 commitment and courage in confronting the many social, political, and economic challenges in their countries.<\/span><\/i> \u201d
\n Laila Alonso Huarte & Laura Longobardi, the Festival\u2019s Co-Editorial Directors.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n\n\n
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INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
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The International Documentary Jury is represented by photographer Luvia Lazo, filmmaker and artist Mohamed Jabaly and activist Nathan Law.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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FIFDH Geneva Grand Award<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Brink of Dreams<\/em> <\/strong>by Nada Riyadh Ayman El Amir<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

In a conservative town in southern Egypt, a group of young girls rebel to form a street theatre troupe. The film follows their coming of age, their dreams and their fears, shedding light on the gender inequalities they face.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 10,000 – Offered by the City and State of Geneva
Awarded by the International Documentary Jury<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“This poignant film follows the aspirations of five young Egyptian women seeking freedom\u2014freedom threatened by traditions and restrictions imposed in their village. Rich in cinematic creativity, it tackles sensitive issues such as forced marriage and sexual harassment, exposing how women\u2019s rights remain precarious in the region. The film fully embodies the spirit of socially engaged documentary: it informs, bears witness to reality, and compels audiences to consider new ways of building a better world.”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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FIFDH Gilda Vieira de Mello Award<\/strong>, in honor of her son Sergio Vieira de Mello<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Khartoum<\/em><\/strong> by Anas Saeed, Rawia Alhag, Ibrahim Snoopy Ahmad, Timeea Mohamed Ahmed & Phil Cox<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

In a highly charged political climate, five filmmakers meet five Sudanese citizens in search of freedom. Using their phones, they capture a city descending into civil war and follow its exiled population.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 5,000 – Offered by the Barbara Hendricks Foundation for Peace and Reconciliation
Awarded by the International Documentary Jury<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“We commend Khartoum for giving Sudanese filmmakers a voice at a time when listening to underrepresented perspectives is more vital than ever. The team\u2019s determination to complete this project\u2014despite limited resources and scant international visibility\u2014is remarkable. Through creative, well-crafted artistic choices and a sincere narrative, especially in the children\u2019s viewpoint, deeply affected by the ongoing conflicts in Sudan, the film helps us better grasp the impact of war on human lives.”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Youth Jury Award \u2013 Documentary<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Writing Hawa<\/em>, <\/strong>de Najiba Noori et Rasul Noori<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

In Afghanistan, Hawa finds her independence by learning to read and write. But with the Taliban\u2019s return to power, her dreams\u2014like those of many women\u2014collapse. Through this film, director Najiba Noori pays tribute to her mother\u2019s arduous journey.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 1,000 – Offered by Peace Brigades International (PBI)
Awarded by the Youth Documentary Jury: Lisa Arisaldi Risaldi, Yamen Bilani, In\u00e8s Bonhote, Omer Kaan Dalyan, Lionel Dupanloup, and N\u00e9\u00efs Fernandez<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“We present this award to a documentary that reveals one woman\u2019s resilience in the face of an ever more patriarchal Afghan society, where the most basic human rights\u2014freedom, equality, education, and more\u2014are being trampled. These rights may seem assured in our own context, but they are more threatened than ever by surging extremism. By inviting us into their words, laughter, and tears, the film immerses us in the intimacy of a single family whose story reflects so many others. The gentle images juxtaposed with the film\u2019s harrowing backdrop deliver a powerful, essential message.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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FICTION COMPETITION
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The International Fiction Jury is composed of artist and filmmaker Baloji, filmmaker and photographer Azra Deniz Okyay, producer Elisa Fernanda Pirir and Thierry Oppikofer, representative of the Barbour Foundation.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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FIFDH Fiction Grand Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Santosh<\/em><\/strong> de Sandhya Suri<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

When her husband dies, Santosh inherits his position in the police force, as Indian law allows. She soon finds herself investigating the murder of a young girl and plunging into a sordid affair alongside the charismatic Inspector Sharma.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 10,000 – Offered by the H\u00e9l\u00e8ne and Victor Barbour Foundation
Awarded by the International Fiction Jury<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“Imbued with flawless integrity and undeniable talent, this film explores India\u2019s complex social realities: injustice, collective violence\u2014deliberate or not\u2014, gender and class inequalities. The heroine\u2019s journey, both personal and social, is depicted with exceptional nuance, turning vulnerability into moral strength and inspiring deep empathy in viewers, all while avoiding any hint of victimisation. Exquisitely refined, this debut feature by Indian director Sandhya Suri delivers a luminous message of human dignity.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Special Mentions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Praising the high standard of this year\u2019s eight Fiction selections, the jury awards special mentions to two features: <\/em>Cosmos<\/strong> by Germinal Roaux\u2014an authentic letter of hope and love to humanity, elevated by mesmerising cinematography\u2014and <\/em>Sugar Island<\/strong> by Johann\u00e9 G\u00f3mez Terrero, a heart-rending manifesto for justice with a dazzling direction.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n

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Cosmos <\/em>by Germinal Roaux<\/p>\n<\/figcaption> <\/figure>\n\n <\/div> <\/div>\n

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Sugar Island <\/em>by Johann\u00e9 G\u00f3mez Terrero<\/p>\n<\/figcaption> <\/figure>\n\n <\/div> <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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Youth Jury Award \u2013 Fiction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
In the Land of Brothers<\/em><\/strong> by Alireza Ghasemi & Raha Amirfazli<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Amid the US invasion, Mohammad, Leila, and Qasem\u2014three members of an extended Afghan family\u2014try to start over in Iran as refugees, unaware that decades will pass before they feel \u201cat home\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 1,000 – Offered by the Eduki Foundation
Awarded by the Youth Fiction Jury: Ethan De Oliveira, M\u00e9lusine Faure, Aurele Guyon Riviere, Gaspard Stoll, Camilia Von Wyss et Areg Sultanyan<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“This profoundly moving fiction, distinguished by remarkable aesthetics, held our full attention. Through its work on sound, direction, and staging, the storytelling captivates. The striking harmony between content and form is evident: here, imagery resonates more powerfully than words, immersing us in an original, innovative approach to the theme of migration\u2014a subject as timely as it is crucial. Regardless of gender, age, or background, each character affects us with the force of their emotions and the honesty of their experiences, awakening a deep sense of empathy. To highlight their courage, solidarity, and hope, we have chosen to honour this masterfully realised film.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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FOCUS COMPETITION<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The International Creative Documentary Jury is represented by Fabrice Boul\u00e9 (Caritas Switzerland), Laurence Hoenig (M\u00e9decins Sans Fronti\u00e8res), Michael Ineichen (Amnesty International Switzerland), Olivier Peter (OMCT) and Marion Petrocchi (Helvetas).<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Vision for Human Rights<\/strong> Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There is Another Way<\/em><\/strong> by Stephen Apkon<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Members of Combatants for Peace<\/em>\u2014Israelis and Palestinians\u2014work together to foster non-violence, convinced that reconciliation is not only possible but essential. The question remains, however: is it truly realistic?<\/p>\n\n\n

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Endowed with CHF 5,000
Awarded by the Focus Jury<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“This film adopts a profoundly humane perspective, generating a strong emotional impact. It gives voice to victims and witnesses of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict without succumbing to hatred or calls for vengeance, showing that\u2014even amid suffering\u2014it is possible to reject barbarity and stand up for peace and human rights. It also urges us to protect and expand dialogue between Israeli and Palestinian civil society, including, if necessary, abroad\u2014in Switzerland, for example.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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IMPACT DAYS<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

StoryBoard Impact Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Children of Honey<\/em><\/strong> by Jigar Ganatra & Immanuel Musa Marco<\/h5>\n\n\n
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Endowed with CHF 10,000.
Awarded by The Storyboard Collective.<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“Tonight, we wish to highlight the power of friendship and the importance of truly listening to young people in uncertain times, not only in the West but globally. In this context, words, languages, traditions, and the communities preserving them are more essential than ever. Indeed, far too often we learn of the tragic extinction and loss of Indigenous cultures, especially in the Americas. The passion and joie de vivre of the Hadza people shine as a beacon of hope, demonstrating their commitment to preserving their heritage. As the film continues its production journey, its impact campaign is likewise urgent and promising, not only for the Hadza community but for the world at large.<\/em><\/em><\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Swiss Focus Impact Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Nathalie<\/em><\/strong> by Tamara Milosevic and produced by Recycled TV.<\/h5>\n\n\n
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Endowed with CHF 2,500.
Awarded to a project presented during the Swiss Focus.<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

“The film follows Nathalie, a single mother who has been battling debt for years, with little chance of escape. It reminds us that in a wealthy country like Switzerland, this can happen to anyone. Through its impact campaign\u2014starting in Switzerland\u2014it aims to raise public awareness and put pressure on political parties to find solutions. Internationally, it has the potential to expose the issue on a wider stage.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sublimages Impact Award<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Traces<\/em><\/strong> by Alisa Kovalenko & Marysia Nikitiuk<\/h5>\n\n\n
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This award provides one Impact Days 2025 project with a full film translation and subtitle creation in one of four languages: English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese. Awarded by Sublimages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“One film particularly resonated with us because of the remarkable courage of its directors and the crucial theme they address in their work. It holds strong potential for international distribution, aided by the possibility of translation and subtitling into a third language.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cultural Actions<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

IN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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La Brenaz Jury Award<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Life is Beautiful <\/em><\/strong>by Mohamed Jabaly<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Stunned to be displaced, Mohamed is forced to confront what it means to be a stateless person – a label he resists. “Life is Beautiful” is an insider\u2019s take on how to persevere and ultimately succeed in the struggle for self-determination<\/p>\n\n\n

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“The La Brenaz Jury awards its prize to <\/em>Life is Beautiful<\/strong>. It is a well-rounded film in which Mohamed, as a Palestinian and a filmmaker, strives for recognition. The jury praises his unwavering perseverance, his resilience, his ability to keep smiling despite difficulties, and his generosity in conveying a positive message to humanity.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Champ-Dollon Jury Award <\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Riverboom<\/em><\/strong> by Claude Baechtold<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Riverboom<\/em> is the odyssey of three young reporters in Afghanistan, shortly after the attacks of 11 September 2001. Miles away from Kabul and with a camera bought at the market, Claude Baechtold will film the adventures of Serge, a moralist journalist and workaholic, and Paolo, a photographer as jovial as he is oblivious. Riverboom<\/em> is a story of encounters, serendipity and the unexpected.
One day, Claude Baechtold receives a call from Serge Michel. The journalist asked him to accompany him by car to Kabul.<\/p>\n\n\n

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“The Champ-Dollon Jury presents its prize to <\/em>Riverboom. This film blends friendship, information, risk, adventure, self-deprecation, and humour. It dismantles prejudices and preconceptions, showcasing every facet of Afghan society.<\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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IN HOSPITALS
The FIFDH is collaborating with the Maison de l’enfance et de l’adolescence (MEA) on a Convergences<\/a> jury workshop.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Convergences Award<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Flying Hands<\/em> <\/strong>by Marta Gomez & Paula Iglesias<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

There are people who don\u2019t accept the idea of a lost fight. Women who question the tradition and cultural inertia that violate their rights. The protagonist of Flying Hands is one of them. This is the story of Aniqa Bano ,a woman who learnt how to listen to the silence. Flying Hands <\/em>is a story of commitment, fight for integration and equal opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n

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“The Convergences Prize goes to Flying Hands. The jury commends its stunning imagery and landscapes, as well as its moving portrayal of the reality facing deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Pakistan.<\/em><\/em>“<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The International Documentary Jury is represented by photographer Luvia Lazo, filmmaker and artist Mohamed Jabaly and activist Nathan Law. FIFDH Geneva Grand Award The Brink of Dreams by Nada Riyadh Ayman El Amir In a conservative town in southern Egypt, a group of young girls rebel to form a street theatre troupe. The film follows […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":36513,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[25,28],"class_list":["post-36639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-festival","category-fifdh"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36639","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36639"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36639\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37370,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36639\/revisions\/37370"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36513"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36639"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/fifdh.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36639"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}