The short films Vlekkeloos by Emma Branderhorst (Netherlands) and Sikiitu by Gabriel Allard Gagnon (Quebec) respectively won the Grand Prize and the Canadian Grand Prize in the official competition of the 26and REGARD festival, Saguenay event dedicated to international short films.
Posted at 11:45 a.m.
Vlekkeloos tells the story of Ruby, a teenager living in a small apartment with her mother and younger sister. When she finds out she’s on her period and there’s no feminine hygiene products left at the cash-strapped home, she takes matters into her own hands.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY FESTIVAL REGARD
A scene from the movie Sikiitu
Sikiitu is also the fictional story of a 15-year-old teenager who, living in Nunavik, discovers hip-hop. While he dreams of a musical career, he must also follow in the footsteps of his father who takes him hunting in the heart of the Arctic.
Due to the accreditation enjoyed by the REGARD festival, these two films are now eligible to enter the race for the Oscars for the 2023 ceremony.
The actress Rachel Graton also made a remarkable entry into the world of directing with her short film Suzanne and Chantal which obtains the Public Prize of the official competition as well as a mention of the jury in the category of the Canadian Grand Prix.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY FESTIVAL REGARD
Béatrice Picard and Anne-Marie Cadieux in a scene from the short film Suzanne and Chantal by Rachel Graton
Starring Anne-Marie Cadieux and Béatrice Picard, the short film tells the story of Chantal, 60, who one day picks up Suzanne, 92, at the hair salon. When Chantal’s boss asks her to give him the money she owes him, she has a surprise for him instead.
This is a first short film entirely written and directed by Rachel Graton. In 2017, the actress had co-signed with Sarah-Maude Beauchesne a first short titled Manon loves hockey.
Other prices
Several other awards were announced during the ceremony held Sunday morning in Saguenay. Note that the International Critics’ Prize (FIPRESCI) awarded to a Canadian short film went to Ontarians Jack Weisman and Gabriela Osio Vanden for Nuisance Bear.
with his movie Meeting with Robert Dole, Saguenay director François Harvey won the Philippe-Belley Prize for best film in the 100% Regions competition. Finally, the Public Prize of the parallel competition goes to The other shore by Quebecer Gaëlle Graton.
The 26and edition of REGARD ends on Sunday but Internet users can see all the films online from March 28 to April 10 for $40.