Snags

Iranian Documentary ‘The Last of the Whale Shark’ Snags Special Jury Award at Inaugural SCO Film Festival

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TEHRAN, Iran — The inaugural Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival recently honored Iranian filmmaker Ramtin Balef with the Special Jury Award for his documentary “The Last of the Whale Shark.” The festival took place from July 3 to 7 in the Yongchuan district of Chongqing, China, coinciding with the BRICS Summit and the first Asian Countries Meeting. Balef’s documentary explores the poignant journey of a whale shark as it seeks its soul mate within the vastness of the ocean. It stands as a notable entry in a festival that showcased a diverse array of … Read more

Japanese Anime Triumph: ‘ChaO’ Snags Jury Award at Annecy Festival, Sparks Anticipation Ahead of August Release

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Annecy, France — The original theatrical anime film “ChaO” has secured the Jury Award at this year’s Annecy International Animation Film Festival, held from June 8 to June 14. This victory marks a notable achievement, as it is the first time in nearly eight years that a Japanese film has taken home this accolade. The last winner was the critically acclaimed “In This Corner of the World,” which won in 2017. Set to premiere in Japan on August 15, 2025, “ChaO” is also slated for competition at the Fantasia International Film Festival. This festival will … Read more

ChaO Anime Film Captivates at Annecy, Snags Prestigious Jury Award

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Annecy, France—The animated film “ChaO” has achieved significant recognition by winning the Jury Award at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival. This event is well-known for spotlighting innovative animated works from around the globe, making the accolade a notable milestone for the film’s creators. “ChaO” is celebrated for its unique storytelling and visual artistry, which resonate with audiences and critics alike. Filmmakers and industry experts have lauded the film for its fresh narrative approach and emotional depth, setting it apart from conventional offerings in the animation genre. The Annecy Festival, held annually, brings together … Read more

“Slanted” Snags Top Honors at SXSW 2025, Diving Deep into Racial Identity with Bold Satire

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Austin, Texas – Amy Wang’s directional venture, “Slanted,” clinched the grand jury prize for narrative features at the 2025 SXSW Film and TV Festival, in a robust competition showcasing a variety of cutting-edge films and television series. The film, featuring a senior high school student who undergoes a controversial racial transformation, stood out for its stark, satirical examination of racial identity. “Slanted” explores the lengths Joan Huang, the protagonist, is willing to go in her quest to fit in and achieve her dream of becoming Prom Queen by transforming into a white person. This bold … Read more