The winners of the Light In Motion awards for Best Irish short, best international short, best animation and best documentary were announced at the closing of the 24th Foyle Film Festival last night in Derry.
‘Downpour’ was awarded the award for Best Irish Short. Starring Muireann Bird (Eamon) and Cian Barry (Doctors, Shameless), the short is an ode to Ireland and to Irish rain. The short was directed by Claire Dix (Free Chips Forever!) produced by Nodlag Houlihan of Zucca Films and filmed by Piers McGrail (Kelly & Victor). The editor was Anna Maria O’Flanagan (Frankie) with music composed by Michael Fleming (Deep End Dance). As a result of the LIM Award ‘Downpour’ will qualify for consideration in the Short Films category of the Oscars without the standard theatrical run.
Best International Short went to ‘Tsyuako’ directed by Mitsuyo Miyazaki which is set in postwar Japan as a factory worker and mother, must decide between duty and love, her family and her freedom. Best Animation went to ‘A Morning Stroll’ directed by Grant Orchard. Which shows a New Yorker walking past a chicken on his morning stroll, only left to wonder who the real city slicker is?
‘A People Uncounted’ took the gong for Best Documentary. Directed by Aaron Yeger it tells the story of The Roma (Gypsies), who faced annihilation during the Nazi 'Final Solution’ and who today are victims of extreme and often violent racial persecution.
