Berlin International Film Festival announced the winners of Generation Kplus and Generation 14plus competitions, designed for a young audience.
Beans directed by Tracey Deer won the Crystal Bear for the Best Film in the Generation Kplus competition, with the jury commenting, “This film, which is based on real events, has truly impressed us. We were incredibly moved by the story which unfolded. The excellent actors turned the scenes into touching moments. A film that depicts the racism and colonialism which unfortunately still exist in the world, and compels you to reflect upon it all.”
The Crystal Bear for the Best Film in the Generation 14plus competition went to Stop-Zemlia by Kateryna Gornostai, of Ukraine. The jury commented, “The film convincingly covers a variety of important topics which appeal to us as young people. Platonic love, queerness, solidarity and psychological stress reinforce the effect of the film as an authentic coming-of-age story.”
The Grand Prix for the Best Film in the Generation Kplus competition, went to the film Han Nan Xia Ri (Summer Blur) by director Han Shuai. A Special Mention goes to Una escuela en Cerro Hueso (A School in Cerro Hueso). The director Betania Cappato will be present for the film premiere on June 11 in the Freiluftkino Hasenheide (Neue Bühne) in Berlin.
The Grand Prix for the Best Film in the 14plus competition will be awarded to director Fred Baillif for his film La Mif (The Fam) in the Freiluftkino Rehberge on June 12. A Special Mention goes to the animated film Cryptozoo. Director Dash Shaw will attend the premiere on June 11 at the Freiluftkino Rehberge.
The Crystal Bears and the Special Mentions will be awarded as part of the Berlinale Summer Special from June 9 to 20, at the premieres of the respective award-winning films.
Crystal Bear for the Best Film in the Generation Kplus competition:
Beans
by Tracey Deer, Canada
Special Mention in the Generation ;Kplus competition:
Una escuela en Cerro Hueso (A School in Cerro Hueso)
by Betania Cappato, Argentina
Crystal Bear for the Best Film in the Generation 14plus competition:
Stop-Zemlia
by Kateryna Gornostai, Ukraine
Special Mention in the Generation 14plus competition:
Ninjababy
by Yngvild Sve Flikke, Norway