Film Independent celebrated its annual Spirit Awards Nominee Brunch on Saturday, announcing the winners of three Emerging Filmmaker Awards. The remaining awards will be presented on February 22nd.
Brenda Robinson, chair of the Film Independent board, delivered opening remarks that included a poignant tribute to the organization’s late president, Josh Welsh, who passed away on December 31st after a five-year battle with colon cancer. Robinson shared her heartfelt reflections, stating, “We’re handing out a lot of free hugs this week,” and acknowledging the emotional weight of the occasion. She expressed gratitude for the supportive community gathered, emphasizing the week’s introspection and the strength found in shared remembrance. The audience joined in a standing ovation to honor Welsh’s legacy.
Among the attendees were numerous stars and nominees, including Mikey Madison and Mark Eidelstein (“Anora”), Demi Moore (“The Substance”), and RaMell Ross (“Nickel Boys,” winner of the National Society of Film Critics’ Best Picture award).
The Emerging Filmmaker Awards were presented by “The Morning Show” star Karen Pittman. Sarah Friedland received the Someone to Watch Award for her direction of “Familiar Touch,” with Nicholas Colia (“Griffin in Summer”) and Pham Thien An (“Inside the Yellow Cocoon Shell”) as finalists. Rachel Elizabeth Seed won the Truer Than Fiction Award for “Photographic Memory,” while Julian Brave NoiseCat (“Sugarcane”), Emily Kassie (“Sugarcane”), and Carla Gutiérrez (“Frida”) were recognized as finalists. Finally, Sarah Winshall claimed the Producers Award, with Alex Coco and Zoë Worth as finalists.
The 40th Annual Film Independent Spirit Awards will be hosted by Aidy Bryant, formerly of “Saturday Night Live.”