The Ecumenical Jury, appointed by SIGNIS and INTERFILM, awards its Prize, endowed with 10.000 CHF by the Catholic Church and Reformed Churches in Switzerland, to the film:
Akiplėša (Toxic)
directed by Saulė Bliuvaitė (Lithuania, 2024)
This is a story of broken families, teenage friendships, and the hope for a better tomorrow. The film shows the contrast between youthful dreams full of hope and excitement and a real world that exploits those adolescent ideals for its benefit. It raises important questions such as how to choose the right path to follow, how to distinguish between truth and lies in human relationships, and how to say no to manipulation and abuse, especially when you do not yet have life experiences. What does today’s society offer young people?
In addition, the Jury awarded a Commendation to the film:
Mond (Moon)
directed by Kurdwin Ayub (Austria, 2024)
There are always defeats in life but it is important to get up and start over again. This film provides a societal contrast and also a strong commonality between a young European female trainer and her new pupils, three Jordanian sisters. The feeling of being trapped and of fighting for freedom can occur in both the East and the West.
Members of the Jury:
Douglas Fahleson (Ireland)
Maria Teresa Téramo (Argentinia)
Anita Uzulniece (Latvia)
Dirk von Jutrczenka (Germany)