New York, NY – The winners have been announced for the 2024 New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF). The festival’s jury, which included esteemed figures such as Ira Sachs, Ilana Glazer, and Uma Thurman, selected Daisuke Nishio’s animated short film “Magic Candies” and Nedda Sharshar’s live-action film “Unibrow” as the top choices. Both films are now eligible for consideration at the Oscars, marking a significant achievement in their respective categories. The winners were determined through a unanimous vote by all members of the jury.
Ilana Glazer, one of the jurors, described “Unibrow” as a universally relatable story that captivated the jury with its emotional depth and compelling storytelling. Benjamin Renner, another juror, praised “Magic Candies” as an absolute delight of a short film. The positive reception from the jury members underscores the exceptional quality of these winning films.
In addition to the jury awards, the festival also featured audience awards. Viewers aged three to 17, as well as adult audience members, participated in the voting process. The animated feature “Kensuke’s Kingdom” received the Grand Prize in its category, while the live-action film “Coco Farm” took home the Grand Prize for a Live-Action Feature. The Grand Prize for Short Film was awarded to “The Queen’s Flowers,” adding to its success at the festival.
Ira Sachs, a member of the jury, emphasized the inclusivity of NYICFF and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of cinephiles. The festival provides a unique cinematic experience for young audiences, fostering a sense of intimacy and connection with their own life experiences.
In addition to the awards, the festival also presented the Unstoppable Kids Prize in partnership with Shine Global. This cash prize, awarded to the film “Dounia – The Great White North,” recognizes its portrayal of the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The winner received $2,500 and an invitation to participate in Shine Global’s Resilience Awards events.
The 27th annual NYICFF proved to be a celebration of outstanding filmmaking for young audiences. The festival’s jury and audience awards highlighted exceptional films that resonated with viewers of all ages. These winning films will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact in the world of children’s cinema.
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