2011 Winners
Best Feature:
A Marine Story
Ned Far, Director, Los Angeles, CA
Synopsis: A decorated Marine officer unexpectedly returns home from the war and is quickly recruited to help a troubled teen prepare for boot camp. When the true reasons for her return become known it threatens the future for both of them. Dealing with an issue that now has tremendous relevance as American troops are stretched to the breaking point.
Best Documentary:
Lt. Dan Band: For The Common Good
Jonathan Flora, Director, Northridge, CA
Synopsis: Lt. Dan Band: For The Common Good is a moving feature-length documentary that celebrates America’s heroes. This uplifting film chronicles the journey of Academy Award® Nominated actor, Gary Sinise who since 9/11 has vowed to never to forget those who are willing to give all.
Southern Lens Winner:
Tap-Out
Virgina Friedman, Tim Fennell; Directors/ Producers, Charleston, SC
Synopsis: The enviable quality of life that we enjoy in the U.S. is largely dependent on the plenitude and health of our water systems. What are the water issues? River diversion, invasive species, coal ash, mercury, and over-development. Three young, adventurous college students seek to understand these complex issues in the film Tap Out.
Best Short Film:
Left Alone
Seth Boggess, Director, Chicago, Il
Synopsis: Ian is a Chicago cab driver searching for someone who will listen. As he grieves the death of his son, Ian is compelled to reach out to the strangers he encounters one night on the job. Based on the Anton Chekhov short story Misery, Left Alone is a short film that explores our need for compassionate listening when we're in pain, and the obstacles we face in that pursuit.
Adam Sumner, Producer, Los Angeles, CA
180 Proof
Best Screenplay:
Synopsis:The outlaw more famous than Billy the Kid, who you've never heard of... Follow the crew of Lewis Redmond as they gallivant around the mountains of the Carolina's. Moonshine and bluegrass.
Best Student Film:
Perspective
Jon Byron, Producer, Orange, Ca
Synopsis: Ian is a Chicago cab driver searching for someone who will listen. As he grieves the death of his son, Ian is compelled to reach out to the strangers he encounters one night on the job. Based on the Anton Chekhov short story Misery, Left Alone is a short film that explores our need for compassionate listening when we're in pain, and the obstacles we face in that pursuit.
Fully Poseable
Best Animated Film:
Austin Taylor, Director, Winston- Salem, NC
Synopsis: Ian is a Chicago cab driver searching for someone who will listen. As he grieves the death of his son, Ian is compelled to reach out to the strangers he encounters one night on the job. Based on the Anton Chekhov short story Misery, Left Alone is a short film that explores our need for compassionate listening when we're in pain, and the obstacles we face in that pursuit.