Exciting Winners Announced at ANIMATION IS FILM Festival 2023

Today marks a thrilling milestone in the world of animation as ANIMATION IS FILM (AIF) announces the winners of its seventh annual film festival. The festival, celebrated for showcasing innovative animated works, has revealed its top honors amidst a weekend filled with sold-out screenings, special events, and engaging Q&As with notable filmmakers.

Top Honors and Winners

The prestigious Grand Prize was awarded to FLOW, directed by Gints Zilbalodis, recognizing it as the standout feature of the competition. In a show of exceptional talent, MEMOIR OF A SNAIL not only secured The Special Jury Prize but also shared the Audience Award with THE COLORS WITHIN, highlighting both films' resonance with viewers.

In the Shorts section, WANDER TO WONDER claimed the Grand Prize, while A CRAB IN THE POOL was honored with the Special Jury Prize, showcasing the festival's commitment to celebrating both emerging and established artists.

Featured Films of 2024

The 2024 feature competition included an impressive lineup of titles:

• BOYS GO TO JUPITER

• THE COLORS WITHIN

• FLOW

• GHOST CAT ANZU

• MEMOIR OF A SNAIL

• SULTANA’S DREAM

These films reflect the diverse storytelling and artistic styles that AIF aims to promote.

Special Events and Sneak Peeks

AIF's weekend was not just about awards; it also featured a range of special events, including an exclusive sneak peek at the highly anticipated MOANA 2, presented by directors David Derrick Jr. and Jason Hand. The festival also offered a “Work in Progress” session for YOPPAMAN, led by co-creators Zack Fox and Chibu Okere.

Moreover, attendees had the unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders, including a filmmaker panel featuring director David Lowery and producer Alfonso Cuarón discussing AN ALMOST CHRISTMAS STORY, alongside a Q&A session with THE DAY THE EARTH BLEW UP: A LOONEY TUNES MOVIE director, Pete Browngardt.

Conclusion

The ANIMATION IS FILM festival continues to shine as a vital platform for animated storytelling, celebrating creativity and innovation in the industry. With its remarkable winners and inspiring events, AIF 2023 has undoubtedly left a lasting impression, paving the way for the future of animation. Stay tuned for more updates as the festival continues to evolve and inspire!