Montclair Film and Shine Global Announce Partnership to Launch Student Filmmaking Prize for the Children’s Resilience In Film Awards

Montclair Film and Shine Global Announce Partnership to Launch Student Filmmaking Prize for the Children’s Resilience In Film Awards

by | Oct 26, 2023 | Shine News

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Montclair Film and Shine Global Announce Partnership to Launch Student Filmmaking Prize for the Children’s Resilience In Film Awards

October 26, 2023, Montclair, NJ – Montclair Film and Shine Global today announced the launch of a new partnership that establishes two prizes for student filmmakers participating in Montclair Film Education’s annual Emerging Filmmaker Competition (EFC) to participate in Shine Global’s annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards, beginning in 2024.

An award of $500 will be granted to the winning film in a new filmmaking category focused on resilience, and another cash prize of $500 will be awarded to the EFC’s Grand Prize winning film. The Grand Prize and Resilience category winners will be invited to participate in Shine Global’s 2024’s Children’s Resilience in Film Award events, which recognize and celebrate the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity.

Montclair Film’s Emerging Filmmaker Competition celebrates the work of filmmakers who are in the 6th through 12th grades. These films, adjudicated by a jury of film professionals, represent a wide range of styles and voices that showcase the diverse talents of young people who are using cinema to tell their stories. Categories include drama, comedy, documentary, animated, horror, experimental, social impact, and for the first time, a special category focused on resilience.

Student filmmakers interested in participating in this competition may begin submitting their work beginning December 1, 2023, with award winners announced in the spring of 2024, and Shine Global’s Children’s Resilience in Film Award events taking place later in 2024. Submission rules, deadlines, and category descriptions are available by visiting montclairfilm.org/education.
Shine Global’s annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards honor exceptional films that center around the resilience of children in the face of adversity. It aims to shed light on the countless stories of courage, strength, and determination that children demonstrate in challenging circumstances. These films not only inspire audiences but also help create awareness and promote positive change in society.

“We are thrilled to deepen our relationship with Shine Global to bring great films from our Emerging Filmmaker Competition to the Children’s Resilience In Film Awards,” said Montclair Film Education Director Sue Hollenberg. “As young artists continue to find an outlet for their creative expression through filmmaking, this opportunity will provide material support and encouragement for them to continue to push the boundaries of storytelling into new directions.”

“For the past 18 years, Shine Global has produced films that acknowledge children’s resilience globally,” said Shine Global Co-Founder and Executive Director Susan MacLaury. “We’re honored to partner with Montclair Film to celebrate emerging filmmakers who represent the next generation in the filmmaking community who do the same.”

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About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since our founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else, which is currently in festivals.

ABOUT SHINE GLOBAL’S CHILDREN’S RESILIENCE IN FILM AWARDS

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The awards are open to films of any genre that showcase children overcoming challenges, such as poverty, violence, illness, and discrimination, and demonstrate their resilience, courage, and determination.

About Montclair Film

Montclair Film, a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization connects filmmakers from around the region and world with audiences by presenting films and year-round programs that engage, educate, and entertain through the power of visual storytelling. The twelfth Annual Montclair Film Festival will take place from October 20-29, 2023. We are grateful for generous support from Audible, Craig Newmark Philanthropies, Hackensack Meridian Health, American Express Foundation, JP Morgan Private Bank, and Spiro Harrison. Additional support is provided by RBC Wealth Management, The Nature Conservancy, and New Jersey Economic Development Authority. We are also grateful for our partners at Coldwell Banker, Partners for Health Foundation, The Seeing Eye, Citi Private Bank, Chubb, Compass, Trevanna, and ML Management Partners. All programs are made possible with funds from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism, as well as the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The Montclair Film Festival is supported in part with a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Montclair Film provides unique and meaningful ways to engage with diverse, creative, and sophisticated audiences and seeks sponsors for its signature film festival and year-round film, education, and community programs that attract more than 70,000 annual attendees and generate more than 750 million media impressions yearly. For more information about Montclair Film, visit www.MontclairFilm.org.

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Meet our Fall 2023 Interns

Meet our Fall 2023 Interns

by | Oct 20, 2023 | Shine News

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Meet our Fall 2023 Interns!

Meet our Fall 2023 Interns, Lucy and Reyna!

Lucy Allen
Lucy Allen is a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh studying TV-Video Production. In May of 2022, she graduated from the same institution with a Political Science and Latin American Studies degree, but after some deliberation, she decided to return to school. Lucy is passionate about storytelling and aspires to incorporate more diversity into the future of film and TV. When she isn’t brainstorming her next script, Lucy likes to experiment with oil pastels and practice yoga. 
 
 

Reyna Alonso
Reyna Alonso is a first year Master’s student at Pepperdine University studying Psychology with an interest in research, marketing, and consumer psychology. She has her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UCLA. She has always had an interest in advocating for children and sharing their stories which aligns with Shine Global’s mission. Reyna has experience working with children with autism where she gained a focus in accessibility, inclusivity and connecting with others.
 
 
 
 
 
Learn more about applying for Spring 2024 internship positions at Shine Global here: https://shineglobal.org/internships/
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Name Me Lawand Announced As Winner Of 2nd Annual Children’s Resilience In Film Awards

Name Me Lawand Announced As Winner Of 2nd Annual Children’s Resilience In Film Awards

by | Oct 4, 2023 | Shine News

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Shine Global Announces ‘Name Me Lawand’ as Winner Of 2nd Annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

The 2022 Documentary Directed by Edward Lovelace Was Recognized at Award Ceremony in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 4, 2023) – Last night, Shine Global – the renowned nonprofit media company dedicated to producing and supporting impactful documentaries about children’s issues – awarded Name Me Lawand as the winner of their second annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards in Los Angeles.

The Children’s Resilience in Film Awards, now in its second year, honors exceptional films that center around the resilience of children in the face of adversity. The winning film, Name Me Lawand, is a rapturous portrait of a deaf Kurdish boy’s emotional journey towards discovering how to express himself using British Sign Language, and a love letter to the power of communication and community.

“It is our true honor and pleasure to award Name Me Lawand the winner of this year’s  Children’s Resilience in Film Awards,” said Susan MacLaury, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Shine Global. “The film exemplifies our mission – it gives a voice to the people who need it most and still manages to tell stories of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. We thank all of our finalists, and filmmakers telling important stories around the world, for their continued hard work.”

Name Me Lawand was awarded the grand prize of $15,000 at the Children’s Resilience in Film Awards ceremony last night on October 3, 2023, at Paramount Pictures, where filmmakers, industry professionals, and children’s rights advocates gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of all of the film finalists. The film was selected by a jury panel including Anita Chandra (Vice President and Director of RAND Social and Economic Well-Being and a Senior Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation with a focus on childhood development), Tyler Coates (Awards Editor at The Hollywood Reporter), Jill Burkhart (VP of Unscripted Programming for MGM+), Greg Sorvig (Artistic Director for Heartland Film), and Brian Walker (CEO of Picture Motion).

“This award is for Lawand, for his bravery, his determination in getting his message out to the world. His message is a beautiful one – which guided the entire filmmaking process,” said Director Edward Lovelace in a written acceptance speech read by cinematographer Lol Crawley. “We as filmmakers have learned so much just by watching and listening to these young people who seem to have a wisdom on how to live, about how our planet should be. We need to all listen to the voices of tomorrow to stop us from growing old and unwise.”

The Short Film Prize winner, Ayenda, Directed by Marie Margolius (2023, United States, Portugal, Afghanistan) was previously announced at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival in June in partnership with Heartland Film with a $2,500 prize and the trophy was presented during the ceremony last night. The short documentary follows members of the Under-18 Afghan National Women’s Football Team as they attempt a daring evacuation from their homeland after the fall of their country to the Taliban.

This year’s nominees represented a diverse range of powerful stories from around the world, showcasing resilience in various forms. Through the lens of these films, audiences witness the inspiring spirit of children as they overcome obstacles, navigate through personal hardships, and inspire others through their achievements. In addition to Name Me Lawand, other finalists included Aurora’s Sunrise – Directed by Inna Sahakyan (2022, Armenia, Germany, Lithuania); Bigman – Directed by Camiel Schouwenaar (2022, The Netherlands, Germany); Children of Las Brisas – Directed by Marianela Maldonado (2022, Venezuela); and The Ordinaries – Directed by Sophie Linnenbaum (2022, Germany).  The three other short film finalists were Barricade Directed by Alice Johannessen (2023, UK); Lunchbox directed by Anne Hu (2022, USA); and Translators Directed by Rudy Valdez (2023, USA).

In addition to the winning films, Shine Global highlighted three honorees making a difference: Margie Cohn, President of DreamWorks Animation, as the Titan Honoree, Former NFL Player and Founder and CEO of Project Transition Marcellus Wiley as the Children’s Champion Honoree, and Graceyn Hollingsworth, the voice of Gracie on Gracie’s Corner, as the Youth Activist Honoree. In her acceptance speech, Margie Cohn said, “I am beyond honored to be here tonight, being celebrated, especially considering the great work we have just seen and considering the great work that Shine Global does in turning a much-needed spotlight on underserved and at risk, but resilient kids all over the world.”

The winning film, Name Me Lawand, was also awarded the ReelAbilities Accessibility Award as part of the partnership between Shine Global and ReelAbilities Film Festival,  the nation’s premier festival dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of people with disabilities. The award includes the production of audio descriptions and captions for the film, and an invitation for the filmmakers to present the film in person in New York at the 16th Annual ReelAbilities Film Festival as well as the affiliate festivals program to screen around the world.

You can watch a compilation trailer of the 2023 nominees:

The 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards is sponsored in part by media partner The Hollywood Reporter who uplift these powerful, culture-shifting films to receive the recognition they deserve; Paramount Pictures; hospitality partner Sunset Marquis Hotel; Quest Pacifica; Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang; Jonathan and Dianne Moonves Charitable Fund; pocket.watch; Mattel Inc; DreamWorks Animation; and Sunlight Entertainment.

###

About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since our founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else, which is currently in festivals.

ABOUT SHINE GLOBAL’S CHILDREN’S RESILIENCE IN FILM AWARDS

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The awards are open to films of any genre that showcase children overcoming challenges, such as poverty, violence, illness, and discrimination, and demonstrate their resilience, courage, and determination.

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Shine Global Partners With U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar For Historic Immigration Reform Event In Washington, D.C.

Shine Global Partners With U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar For Historic Immigration Reform Event In Washington, D.C.

by | Sep 20, 2023 | Shine News

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Shine Global Partners With U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar For Historic Immigration Reform Event In Washington, D.C.

EVENT ON SEPTEMBER 26 TO ALSO FEATURE DIRECTORS AND CLIP FROM THE DOCUMENTARY FILM “HOME IS SOMEWHERE ELSE,” AND REPRESENTATIVE NANETTE BARRAGÁN (CA-44) WITH THE SUPPORT OF THE AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

Home is Somewhere Else

Washington D.C. (SEPTEMBER 20, 2023) – Shine Global, the non-profit media company behind Academy Award-winning and Emmy Award-winning films, has partnered with U.S. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) to host an event in the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. This event will bring together key figures from the world of politics and advocacy to discuss the pressing need for comprehensive immigration reform that prioritizes the wellbeing of children and families.

Taking place on September 26, the event will feature a special clip from the film Home Is Somewhere Else, an award-winning animated documentary on the effects of immigration policy on children and families, and will include the distinguished presence of Representatives Veronica Escobar (TX-16) and Nanette Barragán (CA-44) in addition to the directors of the film Carlos Hagerman and Jorge Villalobos and film protagonist José Eduardo Aguilar “El Deportee.”

Home is Somewhere Else, produced by the Mexico-based animation studio Brinca Taller de Animación in association with Shine Global, offers a much-needed yet rare look into the hearts and minds of immigrant youth and their undocumented families, who are caught in the crosshairs of our nation’s hotly contested debates regarding immigration reform. The film most recently won the Ariel Award for Best Animated Feature.

“The United States has not had comprehensive immigration reform for decades. Countless families in search of a safer, more prosperous life have endured misery that is a product of our broken system and processes,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “My beautiful border community, El Paso, has borne witness to many of these stories: stories of beauty, anguish, adversity, and most of all- hope. We must come together in a bipartisan way to end the misery and fix our broken system. I’m proud to partner with Shine Global to elevate voices from the immigrant youth who are directly affected by outdated and inhumane policy and continue the fight for immigration reform.”

Representatives Escobar and Maria Elena Salazar (FL-27) have introduced the Dignity Act of 2023, an historic, bipartisan immigration reform bill. This legislation addresses critical aspects of immigration, emphasizing border security and infrastructure, creating legal status for undocumented immigrants already residing in the United States with the opportunity to earn citizenship, establishing innovative pathways for asylum seekers, and introducing new legal avenues for economic migrants and unaccompanied minors. The Dignity Act of 2023 is poised to be a landmark piece of legislation aimed at bringing much-needed change to our immigration system.

Evelyn DeJesus, Executive Vice President, American Federation of Teachers, said, “The AFT, as the representative of those who teach and care for our next generation, is working with community leaders, and immigrant rights advocates on Real Solutions for Kids and Communities, creating a future where every person in America has the freedom to thrive, fueled by opportunity, justice, and a voice in our democracy. Rather than being punished for their immigration status, immigrant students and their families should be recognized for their sacrifice, hard work, determination, and contributions that strengthen our communities. The time for commonsense, comprehensive and compassionate immigration reform is long overdue. We are proud to partner with Shine Global and Congresswoman Escobar on this historic event featuring Home Is Somewhere Else which shines light into the pain, sacrifice and need for immigration reform.”

This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with leaders and advocates who are actively working towards meaningful immigration reform.

Home is Somewhere Else is an animated documentary that features three personal stories about immigrant youth to highlight the complexities and challenges they face today. Voiced by the actual children and their families, the stories are woven together by spoken word poet José Eduardo Aguilar “El Deportee,” the film’s host and MC whose vibrant “Spanglish” breaks codes, switches standards, and pushes the viewer to decipher his poems.

Each story has its own unique visual animation style drawn by three different teams. The animation allows us to truly see and feel these characters’ worst nightmares, alongside their colorful hopes and dreams for a better future. It encourages a deeper exploration of our characters’ inner worlds than would a “traditional” documentary.

For more information about the film and its upcoming screenings, please visit https://www.homeissomewhereelse.com/ and follow the film on social media @homeissomewhereelse


About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since its founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, and Through Our Eyes: Homefront which is available on HBOMax.

About Brinca Taller de Animación

Brinca Taller de Animación is a Mexican animation studio that has ten years experience making animated films and series that focus mainly on children and social issues. We strongly believe animation is a powerful language that allows difficult topics to engage with the audience and inspire change. We have worked for agencies like UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme, Mexican Commission for the Defense and Promotion of Human Rights, American Jewish World Service, International Federation of Human Rights, among others.  Home Is Somewhere Else is Brinca’s first animated feature . 

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Honorees for 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

Honorees for 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

by | Sep 14, 2023 | Shine News

News

Shine Global Announces 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Award Honorees

PRESIDENT OF DREAMWORKS ANIMATION MARGIE COHN, FORMER PRO FOOTBALL PLAYER AND PROJECT TRANSITION FOUNDER MARCELLUS WILEY, AND SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION GRACEYN HOLLINGSWORTH ARE HONOREES FOR UPCOMING CHILDREN’S RESILIENCE IN FILM AWARDS

Honorees to be Recognized at Award Ceremony on October 3 in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 14, 2023) – Today, Shine Global – the renowned nonprofit media company dedicated to producing and supporting impactful documentaries about children’s issues – announced the honorees for its annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards.  The honorees at this year’s ceremony will include internet talent and star of YouTube children’s channel, “Gracie’s Corner,” Graceyn Hollingsworth for the Youth Activist category, President of DreamWorks Animation Margie Cohn for the Titan category, and former pro-football player and founder of Project Transition Marcellus Wiley for the Children’s Champion category.  Each of this year’s honorees have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to promoting education, health, and social skills for children.

This announcement comes off the heels of their recent nominee announcement.  This year’s nominees represent a diverse range of powerful stories from around the world, showcasing resilience in various forms. Through the lens of these films, audiences will witness the inspiring spirit of children as they overcome obstacles, navigate through personal hardships, and inspire others through their achievements. The finalists are as follows:

  • Aurora’s Sunrise – Directed by Inna Sahakyan (2022, Armenia, Germany, Lithuania)
  • Bigman – Directed by Camiel Schouwenaar (2022, The Netherlands, Germany)
  • Children of Las Brisas – Directed by Marianela Maldonado (2022, Venezuela)
  • Name Me Lawand  – Directed by Edward Lovelace (2022, United Kingdom)
  • The Ordinaries – Directed by Sophie Linnenbaum (2022, Germany)

The Short Film Prize winner Ayenda, Directed by Marie Margolius (2023, United States, Portugal, Afghanistan) was previously announced at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival in June in partnership with Heartland Film with a $2,500 prize.

You can watch a compilation trailer of these nominees:

You can purchase tickets for the opening night party and film screenings in NYC and the awards ceremony in LA HERE.

The Children’s Resilience in Film Awards, now in its second year, honors exceptional films that center around the resilience of children in the face of adversity. It aims to shed light on the countless stories of courage, strength, and determination that children demonstrate in challenging circumstances. These films not only inspire audiences but also help create awareness and promote positive change in society.

The winner will be named and awarded the grand prize of $15,000 at the Children’s Resilience in Film Awards ceremony on October 3, 2023, at Paramount Pictures, where filmmakers, industry professionals, and children’s rights advocates will gather to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these films. The winning film will be selected by a jury panel including Anita Chandra (Vice President and Director of RAND Social and Economic Well-Being and a Senior Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation with a focus on childhood development), Tyler Coates (Awards Editor at The Hollywood Reporter), Jill Burkhart (VP of Unscripted Programming for MGM+),  Greg Sorvig (Artistic Director for Heartland Film), and Brian Walker (CEO of Picture Motion). 

Shine Global is hosting an Opening Night Party on Thursday, September 28th, and screenings with filmmaker Q&As of the five film nominees from Friday, September 29th – Sunday, October 1st in New York City. You can purchase tickets for both the screenings and award ceremony here: https://childrensresilience23.eventive.org/

The 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards is sponsored in part by media partner The Hollywood Reporter who will uplift these powerful, culture-shifting films to receive the recognition they deserve; Paramount Pictures; hospitality partner Sunset Marquis Hotel; Quest Pacifica; Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang; Jonathan and Dianne Moonves Charitable Fund; pocket.watch; Mattel Inc; DreamWorks Animation; and Sunlight Entertainment.

###

About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since our founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else, which is currently in festivals.

ABOUT SHINE GLOBAL’S CHILDREN’S RESILIENCE IN FILM AWARDS

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The awards are open to films of any genre that showcase children overcoming challenges, such as poverty, violence, illness, and discrimination, and demonstrate their resilience, courage, and determination.

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Home Is Somewhere Else Wins Ariel Award for Best Animated Feature

Home Is Somewhere Else Wins Ariel Award for Best Animated Feature

by | Sep 11, 2023 | Shine News

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Home Is Somewhere Else Wins Ariel Award for Best Animated Feature

The multi-award winning animated documentary film Home Is Somewhere Else won the Ariel Award for Best Animated Feature Film at the 65th edition of the awards hosted on September 9, 2023. Directed by acclaimed filmmakers Carlos Hagerman and Jorge Villalobos, the film provides a window into the hearts and minds of ​​immigrant youth and their undocumented families.

The Ariel Awards, the most prestigious recognition for Mexican cinema, are known as the “Mexican Oscars” and have been hosted by the Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences (AMACC) since 1964.

The film features three personal stories about immigrant youth to highlight the complexities and challenges they face today. Each story has its own unique visual animation style drawn by three different teams. The animation allows us to truly see and feel these characters’ worst nightmares, alongside their colorful hopes and dreams for a better future.  Voiced by the actual children and their families, the stories are woven together by spoken word poet Jose Eduardo Aguilar or Lalo “El Deportee,” the film’s host and MC whose vibrant “Spanglish” breaks codes, switches standards, and pushes the viewer to decipher his poems.

As renowned filmmaker Alejandro Gonzalez Iñárritu (and fellow Ariel Award winner for his film Bardo: A False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths) recently said, the film “beautifully and simply depicts the complex reality of millions.”

The Ariel Award follows a successful 12+ week theatrical run in Mexican cinemas and multiple festival awards around the world for the film including Best Youth Film 14+ at IDFA, the world’s largest documentary film festival.

“We are thrilled to have helped produce Home Is Somewhere Else,” said Susan MacLaury, the Executive Director of Shine Global and one of the executive producers of the film. “The gorgeous animation will inspire audiences on both sides of the border, and will help foster empathy for immigrants everywhere.”

For more information about the film and its upcoming screenings, please visit https://www.homeissomewhereelse.com/ and follow the film on social media @homeissomewhereelse

Watch the moment at the Awards Ceremony here:


About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since its founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, and Through Our Eyes: Homefront which is available on HBOMax.

About Brinca Taller de Animación

Brinca Taller de Animación is a Mexican animation studio that has ten years experience making animated films and series that focus mainly on children and social issues. We strongly believe animation is a powerful language that allows difficult topics to engage with the audience and inspire change. We have worked for agencies like UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme, Mexican Commission for the Defense and Promotion of Human Rights, American Jewish World Service, International Federation of Human Rights, among others.  Home Is Somewhere Else is Brinca’s first animated feature . 

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Nominees for 2023 Annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

Nominees for 2023 Annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

by | Sep 6, 2023 | Shine News

News

Shine Global Announces Nominees for 2023 Annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards

Winning Film to Be Selected by Jury of Industry Tastemakers and Announced at Award Ceremony on October 3 in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 6, 2023) – Today, Shine Global – the renowned nonprofit media company dedicated to producing and supporting impactful documentaries about children’s issues – announced the nominees for its annual Children’s Resilience in Film Awards.

This year’s nominees represent a diverse range of powerful stories from around the world, showcasing resilience in various forms. Through the lens of these films, audiences will witness the inspiring spirit of children as they overcome obstacles, navigate through personal hardships, and inspire others through their achievements. The finalists are as follows:

Aurora’s Sunrise (Armenia)
Directed by Inna Sahakyan
Produced by Vardan Hovhannisyan, Christian Beetz, Justė Michailinaitė, Kęstutis Drazdauskas, Eric Esrailian, Inna Sahakyan
The true story of how a fourteen-year-old girl escaped the slaughter of the Armenian genocide and embarked upon an odyssey that took her to the heights of Hollywood stardom.
Bigman (The Netherlands)
Directed by Camiel Schouwenaar
Produced by Reinier SelenConnected by their passion for football, Dylan and Youssef rediscover the power of friendship to overcome a life-changing event.
Children of Las Brisas (Venezuela)
Directed by Marianela Maldonado
Produced by Luisa De La VilleThree impoverished children strive to become professional orchestra musicians in a country on the verge of collapse.
Name Me Lawand (UK)
Directed by Edward Lovelace
Produced by Fleur Nieddu, Sam Arnold, Beyan Taher, Neil Andrews, Marisa Clifford, Edward LovelaceName Me Lawand is a rapturous portrait of a deaf Kurdish boy’s emotional journey towards discovering how to express himself using British Sign Language. A love letter to the power of communication and community.
The Ordinaries (Germany)
Directed by Sophie Linnenbaum
Produced by Britta Strampe, Laura KlippelHave you ever felt like a Supporting Character in your own life? What if you really are one…?

The Short Film Prize winner Ayenda, Directed by Marie Margolius (2023, United States, Portugal, Afghanistan) was previously announced at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival in June in partnership with Heartland Film with a $2,500 prize.

You can purchase tickets for the opening night party, film screenings, and awards ceremony HERE.

The Children’s Resilience in Film Awards, now in its second year, honors exceptional films that center around the resilience of children in the face of adversity. It aims to shed light on the countless stories of courage, strength, and determination that children demonstrate in challenging circumstances. These films not only inspire audiences but also help create awareness and promote positive change in society.

“These films showcase the incredible resilience of children around the world, and we are honored to recognize the filmmakers who have brought these stories to life,” said Susan MacLaury, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Shine Global. “The winning film and filmmaking team will not only be honored for their exceptional storytelling but also for their dedication to highlighting the resilience and strength that can be found in the lives of children worldwide.”

The winner will be named and awarded the grand prize of $15,000 at the Children’s Resilience in Film Awards ceremony on October 3, 2023, at Paramount Pictures, where filmmakers, industry professionals, and children’s rights advocates will gather to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these films. The winning film will be selected by a jury panel including Anita Chandra (Vice President and Director of RAND Social and Economic Well-Being and a Senior Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation with a focus on childhood development), Tyler Coates (Awards Editor at The Hollywood Reporter), Jill Burkhart (VP of Unscripted Programming for MGM+), Greg Sorvig (Artistic Director for Heartland Film), and Brian Walker (CEO of Picture Motion).

Shine Global is hosting an Opening Night Party on Thursday, September 28th, and screenings with filmmaker Q&As of the five film nominees from Friday, September 29th – Sunday, October 1st in New York City. You can purchase tickets for both the screenings and award ceremony here: https://childrensresilience23.eventive.org/

The 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards is sponsored in part by media partner The Hollywood Reporter who will uplift these powerful, culture-shifting films to receive the recognition they deserve; Paramount Pictures; hospitality partner Sunset Marquis Hotel; Quest Pacifica; Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang; Jon and Diane Moonves; pocket.watch; Mattel Inc; DreamWorks Animation; and Sunlight Entertainment.

###

About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since our founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else, which is currently in festivals.

ABOUT SHINE GLOBAL’S CHILDREN’S RESILIENCE IN FILM AWARDS

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The awards are open to films of any genre that showcase children overcoming challenges, such as poverty, violence, illness, and discrimination, and demonstrate their resilience, courage, and determination.

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Meet our Summer 2023 Interns

Meet our Summer 2023 Interns

by | Aug 21, 2023 | Shine News

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Meet our Summer 2023 Interns!

Meet our Summer 2023 Interns, Piper and Yuri

Piper Ackerman
Piper Ackerman is a bold and curious individual with a passion for authenticity and storytelling. She currently attends Muhlenberg College (’24) where she is working towards a double bachelor’s degree in theater and media and communications. Piper is an active member of her college community, including being Vice President of Ritual and Fraternity Appreciation for her sorority and an academic tutor across four disciplines. She previously studied physical theater at Accademia dell’ Arte in Arezzo, Italy, and plans to pursue a career in theater performance and production after graduation. There’s nothing more valuable to her than connecting audiences with someone else’s humanity.

 

Yuri Kim
My name is Yuri and I am a rising senior at Bates College. As someone who draws, edits, and animates a lot, I aspire to enter the field of animation development to assist in bringing unique, imaginative stories to the cultural forefront. I also aspire to finish The X-Files one day.

 
 
 
Learn more about internship positions at Shine Global here: https://shineglobal.org/internships/
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Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts Announces Winner of a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience

Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts Announces Winner of a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience

by | Jul 23, 2023 | Shine News

Blog

Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts Announces Winner of a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience with Shine Global

July 22nd, 2023

The 2023 Indy Shorts International Film Festival (Indy Shorts), presented by Heartland Film, announced its award winners and presented more than $30,000 in cash prizes at its Awards Ceremony, which took place on Saturday, July 22, in Indianapolis.

This year, Shine Global and Heartland Film partnered to present the Spotlight: Children’s Resilience with Shine Global program and the Children’s Resilience in Short Film Prize. This award, presented by Shine Global, includes a $2,500 cash prize and was awarded to “Ayenda” by Marie Margolius (United States, Portugal, Afghanistan).

“Shine Global-supported films have been a staple at Heartland Film’s festivals for years,” said Artistic Director Greg Sorvig. “This new award signifies a shared commitment to global stories of childhood resilience, and we are thrilled to be working with Shine Global in this exciting new collaboration.”
 
“It has been such a pleasure and honor to partner with Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts International Film Festival and bring awareness to children’s issues through our Children’s Resilience program spotlight,” said Alexandra Blaney, Chief Financial Officer and Head of Production and Marketing at Shine Global. “The winner, ‘Ayenda,’ is an incredibly deserving and important film that highlights our mission to utilize the transformative power of cinema to amplify underrepresented voices, and we can’t wait to honor the film again as part of Shine Global’s Children’s Resilience in Film Awards this fall.”

Shine Global’s Children’s Resilience in Film Awards recognize and celebrate the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The 2023 edition of the event features screenings of finalist films in NYC from September 28-October 1 and a VIP Awards Show in Los Angeles on October 3.

The four films in the 2023 Spotlight: Children’s Resilience with Shine Global short film program are:

Ayenda | 2023 | United States, Portugal, Afghanistan | Marie Margolius | Midwest Premiere
Summer 2021 – As Kabul falls to the Taliban, members of the Under-18 Afghan National Women’s Football Team attempt a daring evacuation from their homeland.
*WINNER

Barricade | 2023 | UK | Alice Johannessen | World Premiere
After experiencing a traumatic event on her school bus, Aleena bottles up her anger until a chance connection triggers a small act of rebellion.

Lunchbox | 2022 | USA | Anne Hu | Indiana Premiere
When a Taiwanese American woman prepares lunches from her childhood, she struggles to forgive herself for pushing away her immigrant mother.

Translators | 2023 | United States | Rudy Valdez | Midwest Premiere
In the United States, there are over 11 million child translators. Our story follows Harye, Densel, and Virginia as they translate for their parents in everyday situations.

The film program is playing Sunday, July 23, 2023 5:15 PM EDT at the Living Room Theaters in Indianapolis and virtually online beginning July 18th.  To purchase tickets for the in-person program click here and for the virtual program click here.

For more information about the Heartland Film Indy Shorts Program and the complete 2023 lineup, please visit https://www.heartlandfilm.org/indyshorts

About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since its founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, Through Our Eyes: Homefront which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else which is currently in festivals.

About Heartland Film, Inc.
Heartland Film is a nonprofit arts organization that runs the 11-day Heartland International Film Festival in October, the Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival in July, the Truly Moving Picture Award and other year-round programs. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Heartland Film was founded in 1991 with the mission to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives. Over the years, Heartland Film has presented $3.5 million in cash prizes – the largest total amount awarded by any film festival in North America – presented 200+ studio films with the Truly Moving Picture Award, and showcased more than 2,000 feature and short films, including ten Oscar®-winning short film titles. The 32nd Heartland International Film Festival is scheduled for October 5-15, 2023, and the 6th Indy Shorts International Film Festival was held July 18-23, 2023. For more information, visit HeartlandFilm.org.

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Shine Global Partners with Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts to Shine a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience

Shine Global Partners with Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts to Shine a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience

by | Jun 22, 2023 | Shine News

Blog

Shine Global Partners with Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts to Shine a Spotlight on Children’s Resilience

June 22, 2023

Shine Global is delighted to announce a partnership with Heartland Film’s Indy Shorts International Film Festival on a Spotlight: Children’s Resilience program as part Shine Global’s 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards.

The sixth annual Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival (Indy Shorts), runs July 18-23, 2023.  With a track record of 33 nominations and 10 Oscar®-winning shorts, there’s a good chance attendees will see the next Academy Award®-contending films first in Indianapolis. The film lineup includes 18 World Premieres, 19 US Premieres, 54 Midwest Premieres and 47 Indiana Premieres.  Indy Shorts continues to establish international recognition in the film industry. Most recently, Indy Shorts was included on MovieMaker Magazine’s top 20 Best Short Film Film Festivals in the World list for 2022, as well as their 50 Best Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee for 2023.

Shine Global is renowned for its impactful documentaries that tackle important social issues affecting children. Through their compelling storytelling, Shine Global’s films have garnered critical acclaim and have been recognized globally for their ability to create positive change. Shine Global’s Children’s Resilience in Film Awards recognize and celebrate the films and filmmakers that highlight the resilience and strength of children in the face of adversity. The 2023 edition of the event features screenings of finalist films in NYC from September 28-October 1 and a VIP Awards Show in Los Angeles on October 3.

The collaboration between Heartland Film Indy Shorts and Shine Global aims to shed light on the unique challenges faced by children and the remarkable strength they possess to overcome adversity. This year, the festival will feature Spotlight: Children’s Resilience with Shine Global program. The films featured in the program will provide audiences with an immersive and empathetic experience, allowing them to connect with the stories of children from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The winning film of the program will receive a cash prize and be honored again as part of Shine Global’s Children’s Resilience in Film Awards this fall.

“We are excited to collaborate with Heartland Film Indy Shorts to bring attention to the inspiring stories of children’s resilience from around the world,” said Susan MacLaury, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Shine Global. “Film has a unique ability to create empathy and understanding, and we believe that by highlighting these stories, we can contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world.”

The four films in the Spotlight: Children’s Resilience with Shine Global program are:

Ayenda | 2023 | United States, Portugal, Afghanistan | Marie Margolius | Midwest Premiere
Summer 2021 – As Kabul falls to the Taliban, members of the Under-18 Afghan National Women’s Football Team attempt a daring evacuation from their homeland.

Barricade | 2023 | UK | Alice Johannessen | World Premiere
After experiencing a traumatic event on her school bus, Aleena bottles up her anger until a chance connection triggers a small act of rebellion.

Lunchbox | 2022 | USA | Anne Hu | Indiana Premiere
When a Taiwanese American woman prepares lunches from her childhood, she struggles to forgive herself for pushing away her immigrant mother.

Translators | 2023 | United States | Rudy Valdez | Midwest Premiere
In the United States, there are over 11 million child translators. Our story follows Harye, Densel, and Virginia as they translate for their parents in everyday situations.

The film program is playing Sunday, July 23, 2023 5:15 PM EDT at the Living Room Theaters in Indianapolis and virtually online beginning July 18th.  To purchase tickets for the in-person program click here and for the virtual program click here.

For more information about the Heartland Film Indy Shorts Program and the complete 2023 lineup, please visit https://www.heartlandfilm.org/indyshorts

For more information about the 2023 Children’s Resilience in Film Awards and to submit a feature film by June 30th, 2023, please visit https://filmfreeway.com/ShineGlobalChildrensResilienceinFilm/.

About Shine Global

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. We produce inspiring films and compelling content about underserved children. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on Capitol Hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

Since its founding in 2005, Shine Global films have won more than 100 major awards, including an Academy Award® for Best Documentary Short Subject for Inocente and an Academy Award®-nomination and two Emmys® for War/Dance. Recent films include the documentary-animation hybrid Liyana, the hit documentary The Eagle Huntress, Through Our Eyes: Homefront which is available on HBOMax, and Home Is Somewhere Else which is currently in festivals.

About Heartland Film, Inc.
Heartland Film is a nonprofit arts organization that runs the 11-day Heartland International Film Festival in October, the Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival in July, the Truly Moving Picture Award and other year-round programs. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, Heartland Film was founded in 1991 with the mission to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives. Over the years, Heartland Film has presented $3.5 million in cash prizes – the largest total amount awarded by any film festival in North America – presented 200+ studio films with the Truly Moving Picture Award, and showcased more than 2,000 feature and short films, including ten Oscar®-winning short film titles. The 32nd Heartland International Film Festival is scheduled for October 5-15, 2023, and the 6th Indy Shorts International Film Festival was held July 18-23, 2023. For more information, visit HeartlandFilm.org.

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