Iris Prize 2021: Baba wins both £30,000 main prize and Best British award

Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: Baba

Baba, directed by Sam Arbor and Adam Ali, has been announced the winner of the Iris Prize 2021, Cardiff’s International LGBT+ Short Film Prize, sponsored by The Michael Bishop Foundation.

The £30,000 prize enables Arbor and Ali to make a new short film in Wales, becoming the 13th Iris production.

In addition, Baba has also won the Best British Award, supported by Film4 and Pinewood Studios. The winner was announced at a awards ceremony in Cardiff, Wales last night (9 October 2021).

This is only the second time in the festival’s 15-year history that a film has won both categories. The winner receives an exclusive screening of their film in the John Barry Theatre at Pinewood Studios complete with red carpet, and a welcome reception with drinks and canapes sponsored by Pinewood Studios Group.

This year saw the festival’s return to being an in-person event, which saw attendance from international directors David Färdmar and Peeter Rebane, Firebird actor Tom Prior and a surprise appearance from US filmmaker Cheryl Dunye, who’s been directing episodes of Bridgerton.

THE WINNERS

Iris Prize

Rasheed Bailey, Chair of the Jury, says of Baba: “A skilfully constructed film that speaks to oppression, acceptance and the strength of community. The direction is impressive, coherent and offers moments of self-reflection whilst transmitting courageousness and pride in one’s identity. The issues explored are systemic issues that affect countless others, but the story is portrayed in a hopeful way which encourages a call to action to continue the fight for equality”.

He adds: “Baba also appeals to a wide audience, due to its many ingredients – such as; beautiful visuals, humour, warmth, and moments of real tension and adventure.”

The first of the two highly commended titles is God’s Daughter Dances, directed by Sungbin Byun. Of this film, the jury says: “An intense and moving piece that highlights an important issue in regards to gender equality. The main character portrays unrivalled bravery in the face of adversity, coupled with a compelling storyline and an alluring colour pallet.”

The second is We Will Become Better – Sansara, directed by Andzej Gavriss. Of this film the jury says: “With uncompromising, magical aesthetics and an intricate structure, this creative approach to filmmaking acts as a celebration for equality. This film reminds us about the need to connect with others despite distance and circumstances.”

Best British

Tim Highsted, chair of the jury says: “Baba is a visually striking piece of cinema that transported me into a very real reality for people with a brilliant twist.”

The first of two highly commended films is Cwch Deilen, directed by Efa Blosse-Mason. Of this film the jury says: “A magical, imaginative and touching animation with gorgeously drawn imagery.”

The second is Pop, directed and written by Margo Roe. Of this film, the jury says: “Beautifully made with complex performances in a world familiar from some of the finest British independent cinema of the last few decades, but taking it to unique places. The ending will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.”

Feature film awards

Rebel Dykes, directed by Harri Shanahan and Siân A. Williams wins Iris Prize Best Feature Award sponsored by Bad Wolf.

Udo Kier, playing a retired hairdresser in Todd Stephens’ Swan Song, wins Iris Prize Best Performance in a Male Role in a Feature Film sponsored by Attitude.

Senan Kara, playing a mother under emotional siege in Leyla Yilmaz’s Not Knowing, wins Iris Prize Best Performance in a Female Role in a Feature Film sponsored by DIVA Magazine.

Community and youth awards

Iris Prize Youth Jury Award sponsored by Cardiff University for Best Short goes to S.A.M directed by Lloyd Eyre-Morgan and Neil Ely.

Community Award sponsored by Mark Williams in memory of Rose Taylor goes to Lonely Cowgirl directed by Lydia Garnett.

Micro Short Award sponsored by Mark Williams in memory of Rose Taylor goes to Amen directed by Erick Edwardson.

Iris On The Move, the touring outreach initiative of Iris Prize, begins in January 2022 offering special screenings and workshops across the UK, including London, Manchester, Brighton and Glasgow.

Iris Prize Festival returns next year, running October 2022.

Read the Attitude Awards issue, out now.

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