Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia 2010

There were many short films that were fun, wonderful, and full of human drama. We viewed each short film from the same viewpoint as the audience and were able to feel the intentions and energy of the filmmakers. We give high praise to the films that had a strong impact on the viewer in a limited amount of time as well as having a strong message. Each film was a labor of love and enjoyable. The films we especially enjoyed were those that had a particularly wonderful pay-off or punch line that are unique to short films. There is a freedom of expression in short films that is not possible in features or commercials, that’s why it is important for more short films to continue to be made in the future.

Grandprix / International Competition Best Short AwardVera

In the short amount of time allowed, the depiction of emotions and how a person’s deep feelings of the heart were brought out left me in wonder and admiration. I’d like to give the best short award to this masterful depiction of the connections between the beautiful souls of people.

Asia International Competition Best Short AwardBonsai

In this very Asian background, the well-conceived depiction of the deep sorrow inside the lead character was particularly wonderful. I send the best short award to this film.

Japan Competition Special Encouragemen

We felt there was a lack of strength to break out of “normal” filmmaking styles in this category in everything from storyline to direction. We feel that short films should create the future of visual arts. Shouldn’t it be possible to create more freely expressed ideas? Even if the short film is rough or even badly made, it can shine in the challenge. That’s what we were hoping for. We, the jury, were greatly concerned by this but after discussion, it was decided that there will not be a Best Short Award in this category. However, to honor the Japanese filmmakers for their efforts, we will present a Special Encouragement Award.

A sweet chamber music

We would like to award the Special Encouragement Award to this director who learned filmmaking abroad and demonstrated her abilities in her film with this award of encouragement for her future success.