The Prague Independent Film Festival 2023 has drawn to a close on 11th of September, culminating with the awards ceremony, leaving audiences captivated by a diverse array of cinematic artistry. This year’s festival showcased the very best in independent filmmaking, highlighting filmmakers and artists who pushed the boundaries of storytelling and visual expression. We are thrilled to announce the winners who have left an indelible mark on the festival.

Best Feature Award: Unfix by Graham Streeter
The prestigious Best Feature award at the Prague Independent Film Festival 2023 goes to Graham Streeter for his powerful film “Unfix.” Streeter’s film delves into the poignant journey of Ari, who, after enduring Conversion Therapy at a young age, finds himself questioning his identity during a global pandemic. “Unfix” is a poignant exploration of self-discovery and the complexity of human emotions.

Honorary Mention for Acting: Damon McKinnis in Unfix
McKinnis receives a well-deserved Honorary Mention for his exceptional performance in “Unfix.” His portrayal of Jon’s internal struggles and emotions resonated deeply with the festival’s judges and audiences alike.

Anna Eriksson Shines with W
Finnish director and actress Eriksson was a standout at this year’s festival, receiving three awards (Best Director, Best Actress and Best Art Direction) for her  evocative art-house drama “W.” The multi-talented director’s unwavering dedication to the art of filmmaking and her narrative finesse left an indelible mark on the festival.

In “W,” Anna Eriksson tells the story of terminally ill Madame Europa languishing at her last post in the company of her Chinese man-machine. This cinematic masterpiece challenges our understanding of words, ideas, and symbols that once held immense weight, and confronts the evolving human condition.

Hollywood legend Bo Svenson received the Best Unproduced Script Award for his screenplay A Dream of America. The masterfully written epic drama about two young Finnish immigrants in Chicago set during the dawning of WWII greatly impressed the festival jury.

Short films which received awards included The Intermission by Ben von Grafenstein (Best Short Film), Master of Sento by Yusuke Ishide (Best Short Film Director),  Cactus by Dimitris Zouras (Best Cinematography) and A Rush of Peace by Jake Lockett (Best Screenplay).

The Prague Independent Film Festival 2023 has once again celebrated the power of independent cinema to inspire, provoke, and move audiences. The winning films, particularly “Unfix” and “W,” have left an enduring mark on the festival and the hearts of those who had the privilege to experience them.

For more information about the Prague Independent Film Festival and updates on future events, please visit www.prague-film-festival.com.

Full list of winners of PIFF 2023 
Best Feature Film: “Unfix” – directed by Graham Streeter
Best Director: Anna Eriksson – “W”
Best Actress: Anna Eriksson – “W”
Best Film Score: “You Are The Story” – music by Saro Cosentino & Tim Bowness
Best Short Film: “The Intermission” – directed by Ben von Grafenstein
Best Short Film Director: Yusuke Ishide – The “Master of Sento”
Best Cinematography: directed by Dimitris Zouras – Cactus
Best Art Direction: Anna Eriksson – “W”
Best Animated Film: A Boat in the Rain – directed by Yoana Atanasova
Best Screenplay: “A Rush of Peace” – written by M Hayward Scott & directed by Jake Lockett
Best Documentary Film: “Egypt” – directed by Erik Jakobsen
Best Experimental Film: “Achilles” – directed by Adam Morris
Best Music Video: “Kogersin” – directed by Malik Zenger
Best Unproduced Script: “The Dream of America” – written by Bo Svenson

Honorary Mentions
Damon McKinnis for his acting in Unfix
Natalie Brown for directing Slut Chain
Margaux Tiltman for acting and producing Oh Claire!
Christopher Willis for directing The Book of Disquiet

A big Congratulations to the winners and special thanks goes out to Diana Ringo for providing the excellent news!!!