Encounters, in partnership with Ster-Kinekor, has announced the winners of the first Youth Jury EYE Award for best South African short films (less than 20 minutes):
– 1st prize of R10 000 goes to Nanlaban directed by Shaun Swingler
– 2nd prize of R5 000 goes to Can I please go to the bathroom? directed by Jessie Zinn
– Special mention for cinematography goes to Invasion directed by Simon Gush
The jurors feedback:
Nanlaban
“It was a brave and thought provoking story, which was seamlessly put together. The fact that the filmmaker went all the way to the Philippines, found this story and then committed to telling it, is really admirable. It was beautifully composed, had great quality camera work, which was complemented by a good grade. We were blown away by this film, and hope to emulate, and keep up this quality of work in South Africa.”
Can I Please Go to the Bathroom?
“The animation was amazing; it added depth to the narrative, and didn’t feel like it was just there for the sake of it. The camera work, sound design and music all suited the rawness and strength of the topic, while also not taking away from the vulnerability the girls must have felt talking openly about their bodies. Even with the short duration of the film, it was enough to fulfil the viewer, while also leaving them wanting more, and looking forward to the potential of there being a longer piece.’
