London Film School Students Succeed at 67th Berlinale
Give them a big hand
The 67th Berlinale proved to be a strong year for London Film School students and alumni, bagging a total of four awards. Current screenwriting student Gonzalo Maza scooped two awards, including the prestigious Silver Bear for his work as co-writer of UNA MUJER FANTASTICA (A FANTASTIC WOMAN). The Sebastián Lelio directed film, which was also recognized with a TEDDY award for best LGBT feature, has been hailed as a triumph, with a powerhouse performance from transgender actress Daniela Vega.
First time filmmakers –and LFS alumni- Carla Simón and Rafael Kapelinski were also recognized in for their films ESTIU 1993 (SUMMER 1993) and BUTTERFLY KISSES respectively. Kapelinski's film was one of the big British winners of the festival, with the council estate drama Butterfly Kisses taking a Crystal Bear for best film in the festival's Generation section. In addition to being an LFS alumnus Kapelinski teaches at the school as a senior tutor.
Other talent competing included Jacqueline Lentzou for HIWA and Fateme Ahmadi whose film CHANDRA represented London Film School at the 15th edition of the Berlinale Talents.
