Ukrainian filmmakers have been named the 2022 winners of the Humanitas arts organization’s Kieser Prize for the group’s work connecting members of the Ukrainian film and television community affected by the Russo-Ukrainian war with resources, jobs and funding for necessary basics.
A group of independent European filmmakers who banded together after the Russian invasion of Ukraine to own and operate an NGO for refugee filmmakers will be featured at the 46th Annual Humanitas Awards on September 9 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. .
“We are inspired and humbled by the filmmakers’ support of writers and filmmakers in Ukraine as they continue to work on the human condition in these dire and dangerous circumstances,” said Michelle Franke, Executive Director of Humanitas. “During this historic moment, it is vital that we celebrate courageous and creative responses to turmoil and violence.”
The Kieser Prize is given to writers whose work entertains, uplifts, is well-crafted, and “features characters that speak to our deepest selves,” according to Humanitas, as well as film and television organizations that use their resources to “bring positivity “. and measurable social change.
As part of its work, Filmmakers for Ukraine has created an online hub for refugees, the Ukrainian film community and others who identify with socially marginalized groups. In a statement, Filmmakers For Ukraine founder Oliver Zenglin said the project was “honored to be recognized by Humanitas and selected for the Kieser Prize”.
“Since the full-scale invasion began, fueled by community solidarity, we have worked tirelessly on behalf of our fellow filmmakers in Ukraine. These incredibly talented and hardworking people are changing the world through their films.” “Now they are fighting on the front lines, taking the wounded to hospitals, organizing humanitarian aid and risking their lives to fight the war. They are desperately fighting for freedom. of your country and for the attention of the world.
Past winners of the award, in honor of Fr. Ellwood “Bud” Kieser and comes with a cash prize of $10,000 including Arthur Hiller, Martha Kaufman and John Ridley.
A collective of filmmakers received the award in June, which they awarded in the form of a $1,000 micro-grant to support people’s basic needs and/or continue their creative projects. Recipients have included members of the Ukrainian film and television community who have become refugees, enlisted as soldiers, act as war crimes documentaries, or have seen their life circumstances radically altered since the beginning of the war.
The filmmakers promised the Ukrainian volunteers that they would not rest “until our Ukrainian friends can get back to what they do best: making great films”.
“The Kizer Award is a great honor, but also a great responsibility,” said Zenglin. “We accept both with humility and gratitude. And we are happy to tell our Ukrainian friends: the world has not forgotten you. We are with you.”
Source: Hollywood Reporter
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
