HALIFAX, Canada — The 45th Atlantic International Film Festival (AIFF) saw a promising turnout this year, with increased audience participation and vibrant community involvement. The festival culminated on September 14 with the announcement of various awards honoring outstanding films and filmmakers from the Atlantic region.
The awards were determined by a panel of industry experts, including producers and programmers, who evaluated submissions in both feature and short film categories. Notable jurors for the feature film segment included Ann Bernier, an acclaimed Atlantic filmmaker and producer; Steve Gravestock, a former programmer for the Toronto International Film Festival; and Siljá Somby, an Indigenous-Sami filmmaker. The short film division was judged by Inga Diev from the Toronto-based sales and distribution company Ouat Media, Canadian producer Lindsay Blair Goeldner, and Atlantic actor and public speaker Martina Kelades.
Among the highlights from the festival, the Gordon Parsons Award for Best Atlantic Feature was awarded to “Sk+te’kmujue’katik (At the Place of Ghosts),” directed by bretten hannam. The jury praised the film for its compelling narrative about two estranged brothers navigating their cultural history and personal demons.
Sherry White was recognized as Best Atlantic Director for her engaging direction in “Blueberry Grunt,” which delves into the complexities of a marriage in turmoil. The jury commended her for crafting a layered portrait that resonates with audiences.
The Michael Weir Award for Best Atlantic Screenwriter went to Andy Hines and Adam Baldwin for “Little Lorraine,” which the jury lauded as an imaginative exploration of a community grappling with crisis, adapting a unique source material.
Mary Walsh received the Joan Orenstein Award for Outstanding Performance in Acting for her role in “Dancing on the Elephant.” The jury described her portrayal of a senior citizen confronting dementia as both poignant and humorously insightful. Stephen McHattie was similarly recognized in the David Renton Award for his performance in “Little Lorraine.”
In the category of Best Atlantic Original Score or Song, Jeremy Dutcher received the award for “Sk+te’kmujue’katik (At the Place of Ghosts).” The jury highlighted its impressive musical contribution to the film’s emotional landscape.
Guy Godfree was named Best Atlantic Cinematographer for his work in “Sk+te’kmujue’katik,” with the jury remarking on his distinctive technical skill that elevated the film’s visual storytelling.
Angela Baker earned the Best Atlantic Editor award for her editing of “Dancing on the Elephant,” and the festival also recognized Nancy Urich’s short film “FEED” as Best Atlantic Short Film, with Annaka Gale’s “Mourning Rituals” receiving an honorable mention.
In the category of Best Atlantic Short Documentary, the winning film was Wanda Nolan’s “The Muse,” with Duncan Major’s “Imprint” receiving an honorable mention as well.
For further details about the festival’s jurors and award winners, interested readers can visit the official AIFF website.
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