Sonoma, California – Sudanese drama “Goodbye Julia” received the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature at the Sonoma International Film Festival. The film, directed by Mohamed Kordofani, tells the story of the secessionist movement that led to the establishment of South Sudan. Jurors commended the film for its outstanding first feature and stellar performances by Eiman Yousif and Siran Riak. The festival also awarded a Special Mention to “Hesitation Wound” directed by Selman Nacar.
“Invisible Nation,” directed by Vanessa Hope, won the Grand Jury Prize for Documentary. The film examines Taiwan’s struggle for independence as China adopts an aggressive posture towards the nation. The documentary jury described the film as a “cogent, clear-eyed, entertaining film” that reveals Taiwan’s fight for democracy.
Other award winners include “Call Me Dancer” directed by Pip Gilmour and Leslie Shampaine for Best Documentary Short, “Bug Diner” directed by Phoebe Heart for Best Animated Short, and “ILY, Bye” directed by Taylor James for Best Live Action Short.
The festival also featured the world premiere of “Extremely Unique Dynamic” directed by Harrison Xu, Ivan Leung, and Katherine Dudas, as well as the U.S. premiere of Thomas Napper’s “Widow Clicquot” starring Haley Bennett.
Actor Beau Bridges received the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award, while chef Susan Feniger was presented with the SIFF Culinary Excellence Award.
The Sonoma International Film Festival, curated by Artistic Director Carl Spence, ran