Award Winners at Landmark 70th Edition of The Edinburgh International Film Festival
Edinburgh International Film Festival today announced the Award Winners for this year’s 70th edition.
Article Source: DDA
Last Updated: 24 June 2016 13:33
BEFORE LOVE, SHADOW WORLD, SUNTAN, PIKADERO AND CATRIN STEWART RECEIVE TOP AWARDS
BEST OF THE FEST FILMS ANNOUNCED
Edinburgh, June 2016 – Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) today announced the Award Winners for this year’s 70th edition as well as confirming the Best of the Fest films. Over 160 features and 130 shorts from 55 countries screened at this year’s Festival, with the jurors viewing an extensive and varied selection of shorts, documentaries and features since the start of the Festival.
AWARDS WINNERS
Commenting on the incredibly high standard of entries at this year’s Festival and the quality of the submissions they were judging, the juries stressed that they had some tough decisions to make in choosing one winner in each category, and gave special mentions to several films.
THE MICHAEL POWELL AWARD FOR BEST BRITISH FEATURE FILM
The winner of the prestigious Michael Powell Award for Best British Feature Film went to Scottish filmmaker Ben Sharrock’s directorial debut, PIKADERO, which received its UK Premiere at the Festival. The Michael Powell Award honours imagination and creativity in British filmmaking. Last year’s winner was Andrew Haigh’s 45 YEARS.
The jurors also gave a special mention to BRAKES, directed by Mercedes Grower, which received its World Premiere at the Festival.
The winner was chosen by the Michael Powell Jury comprised of acclaimed actress Kim Cattrall, Edinburgh-based Spanish filmmaker and actress Icíar Bollaín and the iconic actor Clancy Brown.
The Michael Powell Jury said:
“We wanted to recognise the very personal and individual voice of director Ben Sharrock for his film PIKADERO. In a year when the jury viewed a selection of very distinctive and different films his film really stood out.”
Ben Sharrock said:
“I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive the Michael Powell Award. It is an incredible feeling. It is so valuable to have this kind of recognition for PIKADERO in the UK. It is awards and recognition like this that help us get the film out to as wide an audience as possible. We have been lucky enough to screen PIKADERO in different countries around the world but it has been a very special experience having the UK Premiere here at EIFF and showing it to audiences in my home city. I am extremely grateful and I would like to thank the jury, the Festival team and Mark Adams. Finally, I want to thank everyone who was involved in this film for all their talent and hard work. What a journey!”
THE AWARD FOR BEST PERFORMANCE IN A BRITISH FEATURE FILM
This award went to actress Catrin Stewart for her role in THE LIBRARY SUICIDES and was also selected by the Michael Powell jurors.
The Michael Powell Jury said:
“We wanted to recognise the striking performance by Catrin Stewart in THE LIBRARY SUICIDES (Y LLYFGELL). The complexities and subtleties of playing twin characters is challenging and she managed to achieve the rare feat of making each of the two roles she played truly distinctive.”
Catrin Stewart said:
“Thank you EIFF! I feel hugely honoured to be given this award. It was my first feature film role and a fantastic challenge to play two characters side by side. I loved working with the wonderful Euros Lyn and Fflur Dafydd's exciting script. It was also very special for me to make a film in Welsh, and I'm very proud of what we have achieved. Diolch yn fawr!”
The jury also gave a special mention to David Sillars for his role in SEAT IN SHADOW.
THE AWARD FOR BEST INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
The award for Best International Feature Film went to Argyris Papadimitropoulos’ SUNTAN, which received its UK Premiere at this year’s Festival. The winner was chosen by the International Jury comprised of actor Angus Macfadyen, actress and producer Sadie Frost and Editor of Screen International, Matt Mueller.
The International Jury said:
“While there were many outstanding films in the international competition, SUNTAN is the title that really resonated with us. Argyris Papadimitropolous’s film is a compelling and unflinching portrait of one man’s journey from infatuation to desperation, marked out by a truly great performance from its lead actor, Efthymis Papadimitriou.”
Argyris Papadimitropoulos said:
"Back in the late '90s I was a student in the UK. All the films that were awarded in the Edinburgh International Film Festival were part of the conversation among us. We would go and watch everything with an Edinburgh laurel on the poster. Little did I know that 15 years later I would be so honoured as to be the recipient of such an award. I can't wait to print new posters. Thank you to the lovely people of the Festival and the amazing jury, I could not be happier."
THE AWARD FOR BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
The award for Best Documentary Feature Film went to Johan Grimonprez’s eye-opening documentary SHADOW WORLD, which dwelt on the shocking realities of the global arms trade. This year’s jury comprised veteran producer Steve Abbott, Fife-native actor Dougray Scott and film executive Tejinder Jouhal.
The Documentary Jury said:
“The jury felt there was an exceptionally high quality of films presented in the documentary section this year but, for us, the clear winner was SHADOW WORLD. Quite simply, it is an extraordinary film. A particularly powerful, poignant and provocative documentary, this film asked critical questions that continue to resonate. Director Johan Grimonprez and writer Andrew Feinstein pose the essential question: will we be allowed to choose peace over the business of war?”
Johan Grimonprez said:
“In an interview James Baldwin once said: ‘What we call history is perhaps a way of avoiding responsibility for what has happened, is happening, in time.’ I hope that SHADOW WORLD somewhat is able to point at how we can actually rewrite that reality. And it’s so wonderful that EIFF honours the effort of so many people, not in the least Andrew Feinstein, the writer of The Shadow World, but also the whole team that was able to get this different story out there. A big tanx, truly!!!”
THE AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM
The award for Best Short Film went to BEFORE LOVE, directed by Igor Kovalyov, with Gavin Scott Whitfield’s MURDEROUS INJUSTICE receiving a special mention from the jurors. The jury was comprised of short film producer Rebecca Mark-Lawson, film development executive Hilary Davis and filmmaker Ashley Horner.
The Short Film Jury said:
“The film stood out to the jury because the director gave us a unique cinematic experience. Beautiful and stylish animation explored a bizarre love triangle with a fascinating female lead.”
The Award winners were announced today ahead of Sunday’s Closing Night Gala, which concludes the spectacular 12-day Festival with the World Premiere of Gillies MacKinnon’s highly anticipated WHISKY GALORE! (http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/films/2016/whisky-galore).
THE MCLAREN AWARD FOR BEST BRITISH ANIMATION
Voted for by the Festival audience, the McLaren Award for Best British Animation, supported by the British Council, this year goes to SIMON’S CAT – OFF TO THE VET by director Simon Tofield.
The winner of the Festival’s Audience Award will be announced at the Closing Night ceremony.
BEST OF THE FEST ANNOUNCED
Best of the Fest 2016 is here! All of the films in this selection have been hugely popular throughout the Festival and EIFF is giving audiences a final chance to see them for just £7 per ticket.
Every year audience members look forward to watching their favourite films again during the Best of the Fest, taking place on Sunday, 26th June. The films screening in this year’s Best of the Fest are: Meg Ryan's directorial debut, the touching ITHACA; THE CARER, with Brian Cox at his magnificent best; Timothy Spall and Juno Temple as two lost souls wandering through Blackpool in AWAY; Icíar Bollaín's gently moving family drama THE OLIVE TREE; MAGGIE’S PLAN, Rebecca Miller's charming New York rom-com starring Ethan Hawke, Greta Gerwig and Julianne Moore; and THE FIRST MONDAY IN MAY, an enthralling documentary which goes behind the scenes of the Met Gala.
Also screening are Taika Waititi's delightful HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE; Philip John's stylish and sexy Scottish coming of age story MOON DOGS; a rare screening of 1973 cult anime classic BELLADONNA OF SADNESS; fun and frantic rom-com MR. RIGHT, starring Sam Rockwell and Anna Kendrick; and Russell Mulcahy's newly restored cult classic 1986 film HIGHLANDER.
All films are screening on Sunday 26 June, and tickets are available here www.edfilmfest.org.uk/films/best-of-the-fest, in person, or by calling 0131 623 8030.
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Dance Base to celebrate 25th year in Grassmarket home
2026 represents a landmark year for Dance Base, Scotland’s National Centre for Dance, as the organisation celebrates 25 years in its purpose-built home in the heart of Edinburgh’s Grassmarket.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Zoo welcomes second rare sloth bear
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed a second male sloth bear, named Rajath.
READ MORE
Innis & Gunn unveils 1875 Arctic Ale in tribute to legendary North Pole expedition
A ‘KNOCK-OUT’ new beer has been unveiled inside an ice sculpture in Edinburgh to celebrate 150 years since the legendary North Pole expedition it was originally brewed for.
READ MORE
National Galleries of Scotland get their skates on to recreate iconic Skating Minister
To celebrate World Ice Skating Day on 14 December, the National Galleries of Scotland got their skates on to recreate one of the most iconic paintings, Sir Henry Raeburn’s Skating Minister.
READ MORE
Everyman presents Nationwide preview screenings of Sentimental Value
See the highly anticipated new comedy drama before anyone else, with preview screenings at Everyman cinemas nationwide.
READ MORE
Enlightenment an Immersive Experience set to transform McEwan Hall in Edinburgh
Swiss art collective PROJEKTIL brings its vivid light and sound show to Edinburgh from 31 January, following acclaimed runs in Glasgow, Liverpool and Leeds
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Book Festival and Celtic Connections unveil major new partnership
Edinburgh International Book Festival and Celtic Connections unveil major new partnership bringing together Scotland's most celebrated writers and musicians!
READ MORE
Hogmanay celebrations at Lost Shore set to kick 2026 off with a bang
Lost Shore Surf Resort, Europe’s largest inland surf destination, is gearing up for a spectacular start to 2026 with a packed programme of festive events.
READ MORE
Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience awarded highest international honours in the whisky world
The Scotch Whisky Experience is proud to announce that Chief Executive Susan Morrison has been inducted into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame,
READ MORE
DF Concerts & Events celebrates a year of sustainable and inclusive events
DF Concerts & Events is celebrating the success of their sustainability initiatives delivered across their major summer events in 2025.
READ MORE
Isaac McHale and Stuart Ralston Burns Night in Edinburgh
On Sunday 25th January, for one night only, Isaac McHale returns to his native Scotland for a Burns Night dinner with Stuart Ralston at his Michelin-starred Lyla.
READ MORE
Funded Debut Fringe for Scottish comedians returns for 2nd year
Scottish comedy producer Brass Tacks Comedy is once again offering one Scottish or Scotland-based comedian a funded Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut for 2026, supported by Red Bull UK.
READ MORE
Celebrate the New Year with a sparkling experience at The Ivy Edinburgh
With toasts to celebrate the new year breaking around the world, the experience is not to be missed!
READ MORE
Slice of kindness fuels staff at hub of Scottish charities
Staff at Norton Park in Leith, home to more than 20 charities, can now tuck into freshly made pizza with generous discounts, thanks to a local partnership with community-minded business, Pizza Geeks.
READ MORE
Big Fat Bingo of The Year shows announced
Christmas is coming in fast, and hot on its heels is the surreal, off-kilter period between Xmas and NYE... Bongo's Bingo have got just the tonic to help see out the final days of 2025!
READ MORE
Discover December Events at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Christmas events to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in this festive season!
READ MORE
Scottish jazz talent in tune as award winners unveiled
The Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 celebrated the cream of the crop in the jazz scene on Sunday night, honouring outstanding artists and contributors at a memorable ceremony in Glasgow.
READ MORE
Anna Campbell Jones launches small batch Scottish botanical rum distilled in Glasgow
Interior designer, BBC Scotland's Home of the Year judge and entrepreneur Anna Campbell-Jones has released her first spirit.
READ MORE
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo appoints new Marketing Director
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has appointed Johna Penman as its Marketing Director, leading the organisation’s Brand, Box Office, Marketing and Communications functions.
READ MORE
Fingal Sails into Christmas Retaining Two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
Christmas has come early for Scotland’s only five-star luxury floating hotel, Fingal, after retaining two prestigious Rosettes for culinary excellence
READ MORE
George Clooney returns to Edinburgh to speak at the 2026 British Business Awards and Social Bite Fundraising Dinner
The annual British Business Awards will take place on 30th April 2026 and will feature a special guest appearance and conversation with award-winning actor and humanitarian, George Clooney.
READ MORE
Helen Sharman and Hamza Yassin to appear at Edinburgh Science Festival 2026
The first British astronaut Helen Sharman and wildlife cameraman, presenter and author Hamza Yassin will headline Edinburgh Science Festival 2026 line-up.
READ MORE
10p pizzas from Civerinos as Deliveroo marks 10th Scottish anniversary
Raise a dram to a decade of Deliveroo: Civerinos and Deliveroo launch 10p pizzas to celebrate 10 years of feeding the people of Scotland.
READ MORE
Capital Theatres aims to share festive magic and wonder with a line up for everyone
Capital Theatres celebrates the festive season with entertainment for all ages, including enchanting magical family shows, world-class dance and a specially crafted Christmas Care Home Tour.
READ MORE
Lidl launching free gift wrapping stations across the UK
Lidl has unveiled its first-ever ‘Lidl Wrapped’ - a celebration of some of the nation's favourite buys, brought to life as limited-edition Christmas wrapping paper
READ MORE
Edinburgh brewery presents ultimate Christmas tipple for craft beer lovers
Christmas has come early for Scotland's beer fans following the release of a limited-edition craft ale from a leading Edinburgh microbrewery.
READ MORE
Meet Festive Film Favourites at Fort Kinnaird in December
Christmas is already in full swing at Fort Kinnaird, and the festivities are set to get even more magical as a line-up of much-loved characters visit the centre for the first time this December.
READ MORE
Edinburgh bar to raise Cash For Kids after Christmas nutcracker theft
Copper Blossom on George Street Edinburgh has launched a new festive cocktail in aid of a children’s charity following the theft of its eight-foot Christmas nutcracker statue.
READ MORE
Embrace the spirit of Christmas on International Volunteer Day
Christmas is a time for giving, and what better opportunity to discover new ways to give back to your community than on Friday 5th December, International Volunteer Day.
READ MORE
WIN! An Edinburgh Christmas Experience for 4
Heard the news? OMNi is inviting everyone to get into the festive spirit with an exclusive Christmas Prize Draw.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links