The award ceremony for the 36th PFF (Pia Film Festival) "PFF Award 2014" (organized by PFF Partners) was held on September 25 at the National Film Center, The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo in Chuo Ward. Known as a gateway for young filmmakers, this award has launched the careers of numerous directors now active at the forefront of the industry. This year, 21 films were selected from a total of 528 submissions. From these, the five final judges—cinematographer Katsumi Yanagishima, producer Akira Morishige, film director Yang Yeong-hee, film director Kenji Uchida, and actor Hiroki Narimiya—selected the Grand Prix (1 film), Runner-up Grand Prix (1 film), and Special Jury Prizes (3 films), determining a total of 8 awards (10 films). The Grand Prix was awarded to director Chie Hayakawa's "Niagara".
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The film depicts an 18-year-old girl who accepts the painful realities of her death-row grandfather and dementia-stricken grandmother without shock or despair, choosing instead to live positively. Director Uchida (right in photo) stated the reason for the award: "Amid many films conveying a sense of loss, this is a mysterious film where the protagonist remains stable without evoking that feeling of loss. It offered a fresh emotional impact." Director Hayakawa expressed her joy, saying, "I'm truly happy that my first film, made by gathering staff and actors, has been recognized like this. I want to continue making films sincerely."
In their overall comments, Mr. Narimiya noted, "Seeing films that express themselves freely broadened my horizons. It was incredibly stimulating and makes me eager to work as an actor again." Mr. Uchida remarked, "It was enjoyable to encounter diverse sensibilities and see various films." Director Yang stated, "Balancing the realities of daily life with filmmaking can be difficult at times, but I hope you feel the happiness of being in an environment where you can make films and continue creating." Mr. Yanagishima advised, "I want you to focus more on technical aspects. Technique can elevate the quality of your films." Morishige encouraged the young directors in the audience, saying, "You need to be aware that you're still inexperienced as directors, cameramen, and screenwriters. Watch more films by your seniors, even if it's just DVDs."
Details can be viewed on the award website.
http://pff.jp/jp/news/2014/09/pff2014-3.html
The award-winning works are as follows.
▽Grand Prix
"Niagara" directed by Chie Hayakawa
▽Runner-up
"Rampa" directed by Yuki Nakajima
▽Special Jury Prize
"Smoldering Fire" Directed by Kiko Yamauchi
"Not Human" Directed by Kengo Yagawa
"Motors" Directed by Daichi Watanabe
▽Entertainment Award ( Horipro Award )
"The Dictator, Koga." Directed by Toshimitsu Iizuka
▽Gemstone Award ( Nikkatsu Award )
"Neo Momotaro" Director: Manabu Oda
▽Movie Fan Award ( Pia Eiga Seikatsu Award )
"Shut Up and Do Your Best" Directed by Kairi Sato
▽Audience Award
"Shut Up and Do Your Best" directed by Sato Kaima
▽Japan Film Pen Club Award
"People Living in Nadenya" directed by Kazuki Azuma
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