Vashon Film Institute has set the date for the third annual Vashon Island Film Festival, which is slated to take place Aug. 8-11. The announcement comes with the launch of two new divisions of the Vashon Film Institute and a new donation arm, which accepts restricted funds to be used solely to fund improvements at the Vashon Theatre.
Vfi’s new divisions are the Quartermaster Lab, a collective of filmmaking programs, and VFIpresents, its sales, distribution and release division, which will also focus on organizing community events outside Viff.
“The quintessential goal in founding Vfi was to support independent filmmaking in the Pacific Northwest,” said Mark Mathias Sayre, founder of Vashon Film Institute. “To that end, Viff has already brought compelling indie features and documentaries to local audiences and will continue to do so. But that’s only part of the game plan: We’re equally committed to engendering the...
Vfi’s new divisions are the Quartermaster Lab, a collective of filmmaking programs, and VFIpresents, its sales, distribution and release division, which will also focus on organizing community events outside Viff.
“The quintessential goal in founding Vfi was to support independent filmmaking in the Pacific Northwest,” said Mark Mathias Sayre, founder of Vashon Film Institute. “To that end, Viff has already brought compelling indie features and documentaries to local audiences and will continue to do so. But that’s only part of the game plan: We’re equally committed to engendering the...
- 4/19/2024
- by Selena Kuznikov and Jack Dunn
- Variety Film + TV
People protesting the Israel-Hamas war outside the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards could be heard inside throughout the ceremony on Sunday afternoon.
A handful of protesters were outside the tent located on the beach in Santa Monica playing previously recorded chants on a megaphone such as “free Palestine,” “long live Palestine” and “ceasefire now.” The chants continued as awards were presented inside and were also heard during the red carpet arrivals earlier in the day.
Protesters chant “Free, Free Palestine” and “Ceasefire Now” outside the 2024 #SpiritAwards pic.twitter.com/HajqDt1D76
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) February 25, 2024
Sources told The Hollywood Reporter that the chants were “very audible” inside the tent where the ceremony was taking place. They could also be heard on the livestream of the event on Film Independent and IMDb’s YouTube channels. At one point, while actor and comedian Jim Gaffigan was presenting, he appeared to be...
A handful of protesters were outside the tent located on the beach in Santa Monica playing previously recorded chants on a megaphone such as “free Palestine,” “long live Palestine” and “ceasefire now.” The chants continued as awards were presented inside and were also heard during the red carpet arrivals earlier in the day.
Protesters chant “Free, Free Palestine” and “Ceasefire Now” outside the 2024 #SpiritAwards pic.twitter.com/HajqDt1D76
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) February 25, 2024
Sources told The Hollywood Reporter that the chants were “very audible” inside the tent where the ceremony was taking place. They could also be heard on the livestream of the event on Film Independent and IMDb’s YouTube channels. At one point, while actor and comedian Jim Gaffigan was presenting, he appeared to be...
- 2/25/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 39th Annual Film Independent Spirit Awards are underway in Santa Monica, California, with Aidy Bryant hosting the event.
Stars that are confirmed to present throughout the night include Joel Kim Booster, Adam Brody, Danielle Brooks, Sterling K. Brown, Quinta Brunson, Emma Corrin, Colman Domingo, Hannah Einbinder, Jim Gaffigan, Ronald Gladden, Stephanie Hsu, Anna Kendrick, Jude Law, Greta Lee, Zoe Lister-Jones, Trace Lysette and James Marsden.
Related: Film Independent Spirit Awards Winners List
Other stars that will present at the gala also include Thomasin McKenzie, Natalie Morales, Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, Emma Roberts, Andrew Scott, Milo Ventimiglia, Jessica Williams and Jimmy O. Yang.
Lily Gladstone serves as this year’s honorary chair of the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Related: Aidy Bryant’s Independent Spirit Awards Monologue Takes On AI, The Strike & Pains Of Hosting
“We’re thrilled to have Lily Gladstone joining us this year as our honorary chair,” said Josh Welsh,...
Stars that are confirmed to present throughout the night include Joel Kim Booster, Adam Brody, Danielle Brooks, Sterling K. Brown, Quinta Brunson, Emma Corrin, Colman Domingo, Hannah Einbinder, Jim Gaffigan, Ronald Gladden, Stephanie Hsu, Anna Kendrick, Jude Law, Greta Lee, Zoe Lister-Jones, Trace Lysette and James Marsden.
Related: Film Independent Spirit Awards Winners List
Other stars that will present at the gala also include Thomasin McKenzie, Natalie Morales, Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, Emma Roberts, Andrew Scott, Milo Ventimiglia, Jessica Williams and Jimmy O. Yang.
Lily Gladstone serves as this year’s honorary chair of the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Related: Aidy Bryant’s Independent Spirit Awards Monologue Takes On AI, The Strike & Pains Of Hosting
“We’re thrilled to have Lily Gladstone joining us this year as our honorary chair,” said Josh Welsh,...
- 2/25/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
When film and TV talents collide on the Santa Monica beach at the Film Independent Spirit Awards, anything can happen. Just ask “American Fiction” nominee Jeffrey Wright.
“The year I was nominated for ‘Basquiat,’ our producer Jon Kilik said, ‘Hey, do you want to meet Muhammad Ali?’” recalls Wright, up for the debut performance trophy at the 1997 ceremony, while the boxing champ was there with his doc “When We Were Kings.” “I pretty much skipped over a series of tables to say hello to him. Ali was an absolute personal hero and meeting him blew my mind. That was the beginning of a really gratifying relationship, because I ended up [playing photographer Howard Bingham] in the movie ‘Ali.’”
Wright, who had already won a Tony Award at that point, went on to more acclaim and glory in film and TV roles, this year receiving his first Oscar nomination for his performance in “American Fiction.
“The year I was nominated for ‘Basquiat,’ our producer Jon Kilik said, ‘Hey, do you want to meet Muhammad Ali?’” recalls Wright, up for the debut performance trophy at the 1997 ceremony, while the boxing champ was there with his doc “When We Were Kings.” “I pretty much skipped over a series of tables to say hello to him. Ali was an absolute personal hero and meeting him blew my mind. That was the beginning of a really gratifying relationship, because I ended up [playing photographer Howard Bingham] in the movie ‘Ali.’”
Wright, who had already won a Tony Award at that point, went on to more acclaim and glory in film and TV roles, this year receiving his first Oscar nomination for his performance in “American Fiction.
- 2/22/2024
- by Gregg Goldstein
- Variety Film + TV
Charles Melton’s awards campaign for his breakout role in “May December” started in May when the Todd Haynes drama co-starring Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman premiered at Cannes.
Since then, Melton has gone on to receive a slew of award nominations and wins. He picked up Golden Globe and Independent Spirit Award noms and won a Gotham for outstanding supporting performance.
Fans of the film, however, were disappointed when Melton didn’t receive an Oscar nomination, and the movie only earned one for original screenplay.
But, I’m glad to report that Melton is doing just fine. “I’m happy,” Melton told me Wednesday night at Cultured’s art and film issue dinner (Melton and Lakeith Stanfield appear on separate covers of the magazine). “I just got back from Hawaii. I was just relaxing and processing and getting a nice little suntan. I reconnected with my friends and family...
Since then, Melton has gone on to receive a slew of award nominations and wins. He picked up Golden Globe and Independent Spirit Award noms and won a Gotham for outstanding supporting performance.
Fans of the film, however, were disappointed when Melton didn’t receive an Oscar nomination, and the movie only earned one for original screenplay.
But, I’m glad to report that Melton is doing just fine. “I’m happy,” Melton told me Wednesday night at Cultured’s art and film issue dinner (Melton and Lakeith Stanfield appear on separate covers of the magazine). “I just got back from Hawaii. I was just relaxing and processing and getting a nice little suntan. I reconnected with my friends and family...
- 2/15/2024
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
On January 13, just over a week before he received an Academy Award nomination for the Obamas-produced biopic Rustin, Film Independent Presents celebrated the career of esteemed stage and screen powerhouse–not to mention two-time Film Independent Spirit Award nominee!–Colman Domingo. Held at The Hammer Museum’s Billy Wilder Theater in Los Angeles, the in-person conversation was moderated by the iconic Natasha Lyonne, who Domingo lovingly referred to as his “sister” in the entertainment industry.
The evening spotlighted many of the actor’s most notable roles, culminating of course with his turn as Civil Rights leader and March on Washington organizer Bayard Rustin, for which he has earned nominations from the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards in addition to the Oscars. Watch the full conversation below:
Film Independent’s Josh Welsh and Alana Waksman–Fi’s President and Nonfiction Programs and Fiscal Sponsorship Coordinator, respectively–began the evening with introductory remarks.
The evening spotlighted many of the actor’s most notable roles, culminating of course with his turn as Civil Rights leader and March on Washington organizer Bayard Rustin, for which he has earned nominations from the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards in addition to the Oscars. Watch the full conversation below:
Film Independent’s Josh Welsh and Alana Waksman–Fi’s President and Nonfiction Programs and Fiscal Sponsorship Coordinator, respectively–began the evening with introductory remarks.
- 1/26/2024
- by Adam Vargas
- Film Independent News & More
A handful of awards season hopefuls headed to Santa Monica Beach on Saturday morning for Film Independent’s Spirit Award nominees brunch at Hotel Casa del Mar.
Killers of the Flower Moon star Lily Gladstone, the Spirit Awards honorary chair for the org’s Feb. 25 show, and Rustin star Colman Domingo teamed to host the event and hand out Emerging Filmmaker Awards including $75,000 in grants.
The Someone to Watch Award, presented by Stella Artois, was doled out to Mountains director Monica Sorelle. The honor, now in its 30th year, is meant to recognize “a talented first-time narrative filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition,” and comes with a $25,000 unrestricted grant.
The Truer Than Fiction Award was given to Set Hernandez, director of unseen. The award, which is in its 29th year and is “presented to a first-time director of nonfiction features who has not received significant recognition,...
Killers of the Flower Moon star Lily Gladstone, the Spirit Awards honorary chair for the org’s Feb. 25 show, and Rustin star Colman Domingo teamed to host the event and hand out Emerging Filmmaker Awards including $75,000 in grants.
The Someone to Watch Award, presented by Stella Artois, was doled out to Mountains director Monica Sorelle. The honor, now in its 30th year, is meant to recognize “a talented first-time narrative filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition,” and comes with a $25,000 unrestricted grant.
The Truer Than Fiction Award was given to Set Hernandez, director of unseen. The award, which is in its 29th year and is “presented to a first-time director of nonfiction features who has not received significant recognition,...
- 1/7/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Monica Sorelle, Monique Walton and Set Hernandez were named the winners of the three emerging filmmaker awards at the annual Spirit Awards Nominee Brunch on Saturday.
Killers of the Flower Moon star Lily Gladstone and Rustin star Colman Domingo hosted the event for the nonprofit arts organization, Film Independent.
Stella Artois presented the Someone to Watch Award to Mountains director Sorelle. The award recognizes a “first-time narrative filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition,” according to Film Independent. The award included a $25,000 grant.
Set Hernandez, director of Unseen, was honored with the Truer Than Fiction Award, which is presented to a first-time director of non-fiction features. The award also included a $25,000 grant.
Lastly, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey presented Monique Walton with the Producers Award, which honors “emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity, and vision required to produce quality, independent films,” according to the organization.
Killers of the Flower Moon star Lily Gladstone and Rustin star Colman Domingo hosted the event for the nonprofit arts organization, Film Independent.
Stella Artois presented the Someone to Watch Award to Mountains director Sorelle. The award recognizes a “first-time narrative filmmaker of singular vision who has not yet received appropriate recognition,” according to Film Independent. The award included a $25,000 grant.
Set Hernandez, director of Unseen, was honored with the Truer Than Fiction Award, which is presented to a first-time director of non-fiction features. The award also included a $25,000 grant.
Lastly, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey presented Monique Walton with the Producers Award, which honors “emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity, and vision required to produce quality, independent films,” according to the organization.
- 1/7/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
To celebrate the end of another great year in independent film, Film Independent is re-posting some of our favorite blogs of 2023. And here’s a reminder: there’s still time to make a tax-deductible donation to Film Independent in support of all the hard work our community does year-round. Not a Member yet? Become one by January 5 to watch the nominees for the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards and vote for the winners. Happy New Year!
“It’s not gonna feel like your average Live Read,” warns Film Independent President Josh Welsh, as he introduces Ruben Östlund to begin Film Independent Presents‘ February 27 staging of the filmmaker’s Academy Award-nominated screenplay for his Palm d’Or winning 2022 capitalism-and-sociology satire, Triangle of Sadness.
A previous Film Independent Spirit Award nominee for 2015’s Force Majeure, Östlund’s unconventional Live Read “guest director” gig is an exercise in anarchy, with the stage direction rich in commentary,...
“It’s not gonna feel like your average Live Read,” warns Film Independent President Josh Welsh, as he introduces Ruben Östlund to begin Film Independent Presents‘ February 27 staging of the filmmaker’s Academy Award-nominated screenplay for his Palm d’Or winning 2022 capitalism-and-sociology satire, Triangle of Sadness.
A previous Film Independent Spirit Award nominee for 2015’s Force Majeure, Östlund’s unconventional Live Read “guest director” gig is an exercise in anarchy, with the stage direction rich in commentary,...
- 12/27/2023
- by Cortney Matz
- Film Independent News & More
“Saturday Night Live” alumnus Aidy Bryant has been tapped to host the 2024 Independent Spirit Awards ceremony in Santa Monica on February 25, 2024, which will be streamed live for a second consecutive year over both IMDb’s and Film Independent’s YouTube channels. Nominations for the 39th edition of the annual awards show that honors the best in independent film and television will be announced on December 5. Bryant starred for 10 seasons on “SNL” before leaving the show in 2022, earning a pair of Emmy nominations.
“We’re thrilled to have the incandescently talented Aidy Bryant joining us to host the 39th annual Spirit Awards,” said Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent. “Through her humor, skill and seemingly endless supply of energy, she has been entertaining audiences for years, and we can’t wait to see what she has in store for us as we celebrate independent artists on February 25.”
SEESpirit Awards: ‘Everything Everywhere...
“We’re thrilled to have the incandescently talented Aidy Bryant joining us to host the 39th annual Spirit Awards,” said Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent. “Through her humor, skill and seemingly endless supply of energy, she has been entertaining audiences for years, and we can’t wait to see what she has in store for us as we celebrate independent artists on February 25.”
SEESpirit Awards: ‘Everything Everywhere...
- 11/30/2023
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Just a reminder that tomorrow, September 18, is the Regular Deadline to submit your 2023 features and episodic projects to the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards. The extended Member Deadline is Tuesday, October 3. See you in Santa Monica!
Well, look at you. The independent filmmaker, your project completed. Sitting there utterly dazed, short of breath, atop of a pile of warm DCPs—a ticker tape Elder’s scroll of SVOD rental receipts choking your ankles like a low coastal fog. You ask yourself: What the hell just happened? And: How did we pull that off? And possibly: What’s next? Well, just when you thought your obligations as a steward of cinema were nearing the finish line, there’s still a long and winding road to travel paved with awards season gold, glass and bronze.
Basically that’s our fancy way of saying Submissions For The 2024 FiLM iNDEPENDENT Spirit Awards Are Still Open.
Well, look at you. The independent filmmaker, your project completed. Sitting there utterly dazed, short of breath, atop of a pile of warm DCPs—a ticker tape Elder’s scroll of SVOD rental receipts choking your ankles like a low coastal fog. You ask yourself: What the hell just happened? And: How did we pull that off? And possibly: What’s next? Well, just when you thought your obligations as a steward of cinema were nearing the finish line, there’s still a long and winding road to travel paved with awards season gold, glass and bronze.
Basically that’s our fancy way of saying Submissions For The 2024 FiLM iNDEPENDENT Spirit Awards Are Still Open.
- 9/18/2023
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
When the City of Los Angeles dubbed a square mile of North Hollywood the NoHo Arts District in 1992, the area was becoming home to an ever-increasing number of small theaters and art galleries, as well as dance, acting and film academies. The neighborhood gained even more cachet in 2000 as an attractive haunt for creatives when a new Metro subway stop opened, providing affordable transportation to the center of the neighborhood at Lankershim and Magnolia.
When the storied, family-owned Laemmle Theatres arthouse chain opened the NoHo 7 in 2011, it brought even more arts street cred to the block. The theater doesn’t have the architectural glamor of downtown’s old movie palaces, but it quickly became a neighborhood favorite with its attractive blend of blockbusters and arthouse fare, film festivals and other indie events.
However, the beloved NoHo 7 may be gone by year end, sacrificed to keep the rest of Laemmle’s theaters open.
When the storied, family-owned Laemmle Theatres arthouse chain opened the NoHo 7 in 2011, it brought even more arts street cred to the block. The theater doesn’t have the architectural glamor of downtown’s old movie palaces, but it quickly became a neighborhood favorite with its attractive blend of blockbusters and arthouse fare, film festivals and other indie events.
However, the beloved NoHo 7 may be gone by year end, sacrificed to keep the rest of Laemmle’s theaters open.
- 9/15/2023
- by Diane Haithman
- The Wrap
After joining several critics’ organizations in an effort to be more inclusive in recognizing performance excellence, the Film Independent Spirit Awards have created an all-new category to add to their roster: Best Breakthrough Performance in a New Scripted Series.
The 2024 ceremony, to be held on Sunday, Feb. 25th, will be the first to contain this new category, intended for performances in scripted series. Like the pre-existing film and television awards, it will be non-gendered, rather than split into separate gender-based categories. The inaugural bracket will cap at five nominees, versus the 10 for the other performance categories.
Additionally, the Toronto-based Hot Docs Film Festival has officially been added as an acceptable qualifier for films seeking qualification for the current season.
“We could not be more excited to welcome Hot Docs as a qualifying festival for the Spirit Awards and to expand our recognition of actors with the category of Best Breakthrough...
The 2024 ceremony, to be held on Sunday, Feb. 25th, will be the first to contain this new category, intended for performances in scripted series. Like the pre-existing film and television awards, it will be non-gendered, rather than split into separate gender-based categories. The inaugural bracket will cap at five nominees, versus the 10 for the other performance categories.
Additionally, the Toronto-based Hot Docs Film Festival has officially been added as an acceptable qualifier for films seeking qualification for the current season.
“We could not be more excited to welcome Hot Docs as a qualifying festival for the Spirit Awards and to expand our recognition of actors with the category of Best Breakthrough...
- 8/22/2023
- by Jason Clark
- The Wrap
Normally at the top of these Don’t-Miss Indies round-ups, we like to make a little joke that’s somewhat topical. But if you’ve been paying attention to what’s been going on in Hollywood for the past couple of months, you’ll know that the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes are no laughing matter (unless we’re talking about the writers’ signs.) In fact, right at press time not one but two of this months featured titles have been pushed, due to strike-related issues.
And while our blog deadlines being imperiled by the inhuman machinery of Late Capitalism is certainly a headache, our real concern is the wellbeing of our filmmaking community during this lean, labor-conscious strike period. Please consider donating to artist support funds like this or this.
Shortcomings
When You Can Watch: August 4
Where You Can Watch: Theaters
Director: Randall Park
Cast: Justin H. Min,...
And while our blog deadlines being imperiled by the inhuman machinery of Late Capitalism is certainly a headache, our real concern is the wellbeing of our filmmaking community during this lean, labor-conscious strike period. Please consider donating to artist support funds like this or this.
Shortcomings
When You Can Watch: August 4
Where You Can Watch: Theaters
Director: Randall Park
Cast: Justin H. Min,...
- 8/3/2023
- by Su Fang Tham
- Film Independent News & More
“I guess you guys aren’t ready for that yet,” so says Marty McFly—he of the far-off future of the 1980s—after performing a raucous, Chuck-Berry-presaging guitar solo in front of crowd of Bobby sox era teens in 1955, “But your kids are gonna love it.”
Star Michael J. Fox and screenwriters Robert Zemeckis & Bob Gale might’ve known at least that much about the future of popular music when making their iconic 1985 film, but could they have anticipated that said kids, their kids (and their kids’ kids) would still love Back to the Future so passionately nearly 40 years later?
If there was any doubt about the enduring appeal of the Zemeckis-directed sci-fi comedy blockbuster in the year 2023, look no further than Film Independent Presents’ Back to the Future Live Read. The classic film was given new life at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on June 24. The...
Star Michael J. Fox and screenwriters Robert Zemeckis & Bob Gale might’ve known at least that much about the future of popular music when making their iconic 1985 film, but could they have anticipated that said kids, their kids (and their kids’ kids) would still love Back to the Future so passionately nearly 40 years later?
If there was any doubt about the enduring appeal of the Zemeckis-directed sci-fi comedy blockbuster in the year 2023, look no further than Film Independent Presents’ Back to the Future Live Read. The classic film was given new life at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on June 24. The...
- 7/3/2023
- by Adam Vargas
- Film Independent News & More
In our Member Lens series, we’re spotlighting a cross-section of current Film Independent Members to see how they got where they are now, what they hope to do next and what being a part of Film Independent means to them. This profile of Carla Renata originally ran in December 2021.
May is for Members! This week only: 10% off General Membership. This month, we’re celebrating our Membership experience for filmmakers and film lovers all over the globe. All month-long you can enjoy an array of special discounts on Membership. This week, you can join and save 10% on all levels of General Membership. Join or renew today!
Whether by necessity, restlessness or curious exuberance, it’s a fact that 99% of people carving out a living in the entertainment industry are doing so as a multi-hyphenate—a little acting here, a little hosting there, some writing and producing at varying levels of focus and intensity.
May is for Members! This week only: 10% off General Membership. This month, we’re celebrating our Membership experience for filmmakers and film lovers all over the globe. All month-long you can enjoy an array of special discounts on Membership. This week, you can join and save 10% on all levels of General Membership. Join or renew today!
Whether by necessity, restlessness or curious exuberance, it’s a fact that 99% of people carving out a living in the entertainment industry are doing so as a multi-hyphenate—a little acting here, a little hosting there, some writing and producing at varying levels of focus and intensity.
- 5/12/2023
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
The Independent Spirit Awards became the latest awards show to hand out trophies in gender-neutral acting categories on Saturday.
At the celebration of independent film and TV in Santa Monica, three women and one man won in the lead and supporting acting categories, which combined the previous best actor/actress and supporting actor/actress honors. Each category featured 10 nominees.
One of this year’s acting winners, Quinta Brunson, who won for best lead performance in a new scripted series for Abbott Elementary, said during her acceptance speech that she was into the gender-neutral category.
“It’s kind of tight, in there with your peers,” she said.
After the Spirit Awards announced it was doing away with the gender-specific categories, there was some concern expressed that women might be hurt by this move, with men perhaps dominating the winners in the combined categories.
“That was certainly discussed,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh...
At the celebration of independent film and TV in Santa Monica, three women and one man won in the lead and supporting acting categories, which combined the previous best actor/actress and supporting actor/actress honors. Each category featured 10 nominees.
One of this year’s acting winners, Quinta Brunson, who won for best lead performance in a new scripted series for Abbott Elementary, said during her acceptance speech that she was into the gender-neutral category.
“It’s kind of tight, in there with your peers,” she said.
After the Spirit Awards announced it was doing away with the gender-specific categories, there was some concern expressed that women might be hurt by this move, with men perhaps dominating the winners in the combined categories.
“That was certainly discussed,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh...
- 3/5/2023
- by Christy Piña and Hilary Lewis
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The award for best performance in a new scripted series at the 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards went to Quinta Brunson for her role in Abbott Elementary.
“I feel like the least independent person here because of having wonderful supporters like Warner Bros., who’s in the room tonight, and ABC and Disney — the big bad one,” the actress said in her acceptance speech at Saturday’s ceremony, drawing laughter from the audience for the latter comment. She also expressed gratitude for the series’ cast and crew, “because of the spirit of my show and all that goes into it. We have a bunch of people … who come from making things out of nothing. And my show, Abbot Elementary, is made by people who make something out of nothing every day. We just got very fortunate to be supported by the studios and networks that we’re supported by, but we have that spirit.
“I feel like the least independent person here because of having wonderful supporters like Warner Bros., who’s in the room tonight, and ABC and Disney — the big bad one,” the actress said in her acceptance speech at Saturday’s ceremony, drawing laughter from the audience for the latter comment. She also expressed gratitude for the series’ cast and crew, “because of the spirit of my show and all that goes into it. We have a bunch of people … who come from making things out of nothing. And my show, Abbot Elementary, is made by people who make something out of nothing every day. We just got very fortunate to be supported by the studios and networks that we’re supported by, but we have that spirit.
- 3/5/2023
- by Christy Piña and Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ayo Edebiri took home the prize for best supporting performance in a new scripted series at the Independent Spirit Awards for her role in The Bear.
“I didn’t really prepare any remarks and my manager gave me a piece of paper,” Edebiri began her acceptance speech. “I just want to say, I’m really grateful. Yeah, this is really nice and very cool.”
She went on to say it was important for her to see a room — er, tent — full of people who look like and feel like her.
“I grew up, and there weren’t people who looked like me or felt like me,” Edebiri continued. “This is really nice because I’m in a room full of a lot of people, who I really admire and looked up to, but there’s also a lot of people who look like me and feel like me, and that’s really nice.
“I didn’t really prepare any remarks and my manager gave me a piece of paper,” Edebiri began her acceptance speech. “I just want to say, I’m really grateful. Yeah, this is really nice and very cool.”
She went on to say it was important for her to see a room — er, tent — full of people who look like and feel like her.
“I grew up, and there weren’t people who looked like me or felt like me,” Edebiri continued. “This is really nice because I’m in a room full of a lot of people, who I really admire and looked up to, but there’s also a lot of people who look like me and feel like me, and that’s really nice.
- 3/4/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ke Huy Quan won the best supporting performance award at the Independent Spirit Awards for his role in Everything Everywhere All at Once.
“Everyone on set, especially our amazing crew took such great care of each other,” Quan said in his acceptance speech. “We’ve never felt like we worked for anybody, and this is to the credit of the Daniels and our producer Jonathan Wang.”
He continued, “They made it a point to make sure that everyone feels as equally important. We were all there for one common reason and common goal and it was to bring something special up to the big screen.”
Backstage, Quan told reporters that after doing the Goonies and Indiana Jones as a child actor, he felt good to be making movies, and then it went “very quickly downhill from there.”
“This time around, it’s really special because I feel like a kid again,...
“Everyone on set, especially our amazing crew took such great care of each other,” Quan said in his acceptance speech. “We’ve never felt like we worked for anybody, and this is to the credit of the Daniels and our producer Jonathan Wang.”
He continued, “They made it a point to make sure that everyone feels as equally important. We were all there for one common reason and common goal and it was to bring something special up to the big screen.”
Backstage, Quan told reporters that after doing the Goonies and Indiana Jones as a child actor, he felt good to be making movies, and then it went “very quickly downhill from there.”
“This time around, it’s really special because I feel like a kid again,...
- 3/4/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Since TV categories were added in 2021, the Film Independent Spirit Awards have become a funhouse mirror version of the Golden Globes, where often richer TV stars mingle with lower-paid film actors, drinks flow freely and the stakes aren’t as high as the Oscars or Emmys. Yet this 38th annual ceremony is filled with suspense — and not just for nominees and movie fans. Among the big questions:
• How many people will watch? For the first time since 1997, it won’t be presented live on IFC, streaming instead on IMDb’s YouTube channel, as well as both Film Independent’s YouTube channel and Twitter.
• Will audiences accept the new gender-neutral lead and supporting acting categories? They open up the field for non-binary nominees, yet — despite adding awards for breakthrough performance in film and supporting performance in a new scripted series — cut the number of top solo film and TV acting honors in half.
• How many people will watch? For the first time since 1997, it won’t be presented live on IFC, streaming instead on IMDb’s YouTube channel, as well as both Film Independent’s YouTube channel and Twitter.
• Will audiences accept the new gender-neutral lead and supporting acting categories? They open up the field for non-binary nominees, yet — despite adding awards for breakthrough performance in film and supporting performance in a new scripted series — cut the number of top solo film and TV acting honors in half.
- 3/2/2023
- by Gregg Goldstein
- Variety Film + TV
Film Independent has announced the presenters for the Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Among others who will be revealed before the show, the lineup of presenters will include Austin Butler, Beatrice Grann, Sharon Horgan, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Troy Kotsur, Haley Lu Richardson, Melanie Lynskey, Taylour Paige, and Jenny Slate. They will join Chloé Zhao and Siân Heder, Academy Award winners and Fellows of Film Independent, who were earlier named Honorary Co-Chairs.
Read More: ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ Leads Spirit Award Noms
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with The Wallis, bringing to their stage our signature programs Film Independent Presents and Directors Close-Up on the eve of the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “Like the Spirit Awards themselves, this year’s line-up is a true confluence of bold, original filmmakers who are creating the most provocative and imaginative work today.”
Previous Dcu panellists have included Ben Affleck,...
Among others who will be revealed before the show, the lineup of presenters will include Austin Butler, Beatrice Grann, Sharon Horgan, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Troy Kotsur, Haley Lu Richardson, Melanie Lynskey, Taylour Paige, and Jenny Slate. They will join Chloé Zhao and Siân Heder, Academy Award winners and Fellows of Film Independent, who were earlier named Honorary Co-Chairs.
Read More: ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ Leads Spirit Award Noms
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with The Wallis, bringing to their stage our signature programs Film Independent Presents and Directors Close-Up on the eve of the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “Like the Spirit Awards themselves, this year’s line-up is a true confluence of bold, original filmmakers who are creating the most provocative and imaginative work today.”
Previous Dcu panellists have included Ben Affleck,...
- 2/21/2023
- by Aashna Shah
- ET Canada
The 2023 Independent Spirit Awards television nominations were announced Tuesday, December 13, three weeks after the corresponding film contenders were revealed. This is the third year that Film Independent will be honoring small screen programs and performers alongside movie creatives. Scroll down to see the full list of nominees for the 2023 TV Indie Spirits.
This year, the Best New Series (Scripted and Non-Scripted) and Best TV Ensemble Cast Spirit Awards categories remain intact, but the two individual TV acting ones have been overhauled. During today’s announcement, Film Independent President Josh Welsh said the organization hopes “to better reflect the diversity of incredible work being created” by establishing its gender-neutral Best Lead and Supporting TV Performance categories. 10 nominees are vying for each of these two awards, whereas only five apiece competed annually in the now-retired male and female categories.
The cast of Apple TV+’s “Pachinko” have already been named the 2023 Independent...
This year, the Best New Series (Scripted and Non-Scripted) and Best TV Ensemble Cast Spirit Awards categories remain intact, but the two individual TV acting ones have been overhauled. During today’s announcement, Film Independent President Josh Welsh said the organization hopes “to better reflect the diversity of incredible work being created” by establishing its gender-neutral Best Lead and Supporting TV Performance categories. 10 nominees are vying for each of these two awards, whereas only five apiece competed annually in the now-retired male and female categories.
The cast of Apple TV+’s “Pachinko” have already been named the 2023 Independent...
- 12/13/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Film Independent has revealed the television nominations for the 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards, which this year have gone gender-neutral, just like its film colleagues. As revealed online Tuesday morning by Asia Kate Dillon (“Billions“), the annoncement included a winner: Apple TV+’s “Pachinko” won for best new ensemble cast, including Soji Arai, Jin Ha, Inji Jeong, Minha Kim, Kaho Minami, Lee Minho, Steve Sanghyun Noh, Anna Sawai, Jimmi Simpson and Yuh-jung Youn.
Overall, leading the nominees were ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” FX’s “The Bear,” Apple TV+’s “Severance” and HBO Max’s “Severance,” all tied with three nods each.
“As the television landscape continues to evolve, and independent artists expand the idea of how stories can be told, we’re proud to be changing with them,” said Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent. “With our new categories and gender-neutral acting awards, we hope to better reflect the diversity of...
Overall, leading the nominees were ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” FX’s “The Bear,” Apple TV+’s “Severance” and HBO Max’s “Severance,” all tied with three nods each.
“As the television landscape continues to evolve, and independent artists expand the idea of how stories can be told, we’re proud to be changing with them,” said Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent. “With our new categories and gender-neutral acting awards, we hope to better reflect the diversity of...
- 12/13/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Emma Corrin is calling on awards shows to shift to genderless acting categories.
The “My Policeman” actor, who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, admitted that it’s “difficult” to comprehend gendered actor and actress categories as a nonbinary person.
“It’s difficult for me at the moment trying to justify in my head being non-binary and being nominated in female categories,” Corrin told BBC News. “When it comes to categories, do we need to make it specific as to whether you’re being nominated for a female role or a male role?”
Corrin continued about gender-neutral categories, “I hope for a future in which that happens. It’s about everyone being able to feel acknowledged and represented.”
The Independent Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, Grammys, the British Independent Film Awards, and the MTV Movie & TV Awards all shifted to gender-neutral categories. The Academy Awards, Emmys, and Tonys still...
The “My Policeman” actor, who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, admitted that it’s “difficult” to comprehend gendered actor and actress categories as a nonbinary person.
“It’s difficult for me at the moment trying to justify in my head being non-binary and being nominated in female categories,” Corrin told BBC News. “When it comes to categories, do we need to make it specific as to whether you’re being nominated for a female role or a male role?”
Corrin continued about gender-neutral categories, “I hope for a future in which that happens. It’s about everyone being able to feel acknowledged and represented.”
The Independent Spirit Awards, Gotham Awards, Grammys, the British Independent Film Awards, and the MTV Movie & TV Awards all shifted to gender-neutral categories. The Academy Awards, Emmys, and Tonys still...
- 11/28/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Harry Shum Jr. and Michelle Yeoh in A24’s ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ (Photo credit: Allyson Riggs)
Everything Everywhere All At Once tops the list of 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards nominees, earning eight nominations including Best Feature, Best Director (Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert), Best Lead Performance (Michelle Yeo), Best Breakthrough Performance (Stephanie Hsu), and two in the Best Supporting Performance category. Director Todd Field’s Tár, starring Cate Blanchett as a world-renowned composer whose life is falling apart, followed with seven nominations including ones for Field and Blanchett.
The 2023 awards will mark the first time Film Independent has switched the performance categories to gender-neutral. The 38th Film Independent Spirit Awards also introduces a new category: Best Breakthrough Performance.
“We couldn’t be more honored to celebrate this year’s exciting film nominees,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “As the Film Independent Spirit Awards evolve with our changing industry,...
Everything Everywhere All At Once tops the list of 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards nominees, earning eight nominations including Best Feature, Best Director (Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert), Best Lead Performance (Michelle Yeo), Best Breakthrough Performance (Stephanie Hsu), and two in the Best Supporting Performance category. Director Todd Field’s Tár, starring Cate Blanchett as a world-renowned composer whose life is falling apart, followed with seven nominations including ones for Field and Blanchett.
The 2023 awards will mark the first time Film Independent has switched the performance categories to gender-neutral. The 38th Film Independent Spirit Awards also introduces a new category: Best Breakthrough Performance.
“We couldn’t be more honored to celebrate this year’s exciting film nominees,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “As the Film Independent Spirit Awards evolve with our changing industry,...
- 11/23/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
The multiverse-hopping adventure film “ Everything Everywhere All At Once ” had a leading eight nominations for the Film Independent Spirit Awards with nods for best feature, best director, best lead actor for Michelle Yeoh, supporting actors Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis and breakthrough for Stephanie Hsu.
The organization announced nominees for its 38th edition on Tuesday, where other top contenders include Todd Field’s classical music thriller “ Tár,” with seven nominations — including for feature, director, actor for Cate Blanchett and supporting actor for Nina Hoss — Charlotte Wells’ “ Aftersun,” Sarah Polley’s “Women Talking” and Luca Guadagnino’s “ Bones and All.” Aside from “Aftersun,” nominated for best first feature, all are best feature nominees alongside the sole nomination for “Our Father, the Devil.”
Read More: Stars Attend The 2022 Spirit Awards
Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert’s “Everything Everywhere All At Once” has become a bit of a Cinderella story this year,...
The organization announced nominees for its 38th edition on Tuesday, where other top contenders include Todd Field’s classical music thriller “ Tár,” with seven nominations — including for feature, director, actor for Cate Blanchett and supporting actor for Nina Hoss — Charlotte Wells’ “ Aftersun,” Sarah Polley’s “Women Talking” and Luca Guadagnino’s “ Bones and All.” Aside from “Aftersun,” nominated for best first feature, all are best feature nominees alongside the sole nomination for “Our Father, the Devil.”
Read More: Stars Attend The 2022 Spirit Awards
Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert’s “Everything Everywhere All At Once” has become a bit of a Cinderella story this year,...
- 11/22/2022
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” is the top nominee at the 2023 Film Independent Spirit Awards for motion pictures with eight bids including Best Feature. The nominations were announced on Tuesday, November 22, by Spirit winner Taylour Paige and Spirit nominee Raul Castillo, with the television nominations to follow on December 13. Check out the complete list of nominees here.
The interdimensional action dramedy “Everything Everywhere” scored in almost every available category. In addition to Best Feature the film is up for Best Director and Best Screenplay (both for the filmmaking duo Daniels), Best Lead Performance (Michelle Yeoh), twice for Best Supporting Performance (Jamie Lee Curtis and Ke Huy Kwan), Best Breakthrough Performance (Stephanie Hsu), and Best Editing.
SEE2022 Gotham Awards nominations list led by ‘Tar’ with 5 and ‘Aftersun’ with 4
That film was followed by “Tar” about a trouble conducting and composing virtuoso. It received seven bids including Best Feature, Best Director and...
The interdimensional action dramedy “Everything Everywhere” scored in almost every available category. In addition to Best Feature the film is up for Best Director and Best Screenplay (both for the filmmaking duo Daniels), Best Lead Performance (Michelle Yeoh), twice for Best Supporting Performance (Jamie Lee Curtis and Ke Huy Kwan), Best Breakthrough Performance (Stephanie Hsu), and Best Editing.
SEE2022 Gotham Awards nominations list led by ‘Tar’ with 5 and ‘Aftersun’ with 4
That film was followed by “Tar” about a trouble conducting and composing virtuoso. It received seven bids including Best Feature, Best Director and...
- 11/22/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Click here to read the full article.
Geena Davis is sharing her thoughts on the Independent Spirit Awards going gender-neutral for acting categories while also defending her 1995 film Cutthroat Island, stating that it “did not bring down” Carolco Pictures.
In a new interview with The New Yorker about her upcoming memoir, Dying of Politeness, the actress and founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media was asked about the Spirit Awards’ decision to combine its actress and actor honors into two 10-nominee categories — one for best actor and best supporting actor. It follows similar moves by the Gotham Awards, Grammys and others, with other craft categories at major award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, Tonys and Film Independent Awards already gender-neutral.
While Davis acknowledged she hadn’t heard the news, she noted that “you’re losing half of the awards, which might not be desirable” and that the...
Geena Davis is sharing her thoughts on the Independent Spirit Awards going gender-neutral for acting categories while also defending her 1995 film Cutthroat Island, stating that it “did not bring down” Carolco Pictures.
In a new interview with The New Yorker about her upcoming memoir, Dying of Politeness, the actress and founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media was asked about the Spirit Awards’ decision to combine its actress and actor honors into two 10-nominee categories — one for best actor and best supporting actor. It follows similar moves by the Gotham Awards, Grammys and others, with other craft categories at major award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, Tonys and Film Independent Awards already gender-neutral.
While Davis acknowledged she hadn’t heard the news, she noted that “you’re losing half of the awards, which might not be desirable” and that the...
- 10/16/2022
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Two more awards shows went gender neutral last week, fueling further speculation about the day when major awards shows — think Oscars, Emmys and (yes) Golden Globes — might follow suit and drop the distinction between “actor” and “actress” in their respective competitions.
Organizers behind the Spirit Awards and the Canadian Screen Awards are following the examples set by the Recording Academy, MTV and the Gotham Film & Media Institute. The announcements by Film Independent on Aug. 23 and the Canadian Academy on Aug. 25 follow the July decision by backers of the British Independent Film Awards to eliminate gendered categories with this year’s competition.
I’ve been writing about this trend for several years, including my 2019 column “It’s Time for the Emmys to Eliminate Gender-Specific Acting Categories,” which garnered the most attention of anything I wrote that year. I followed that up with a piece in 2020, which suggested ways it could be done.
Organizers behind the Spirit Awards and the Canadian Screen Awards are following the examples set by the Recording Academy, MTV and the Gotham Film & Media Institute. The announcements by Film Independent on Aug. 23 and the Canadian Academy on Aug. 25 follow the July decision by backers of the British Independent Film Awards to eliminate gendered categories with this year’s competition.
I’ve been writing about this trend for several years, including my 2019 column “It’s Time for the Emmys to Eliminate Gender-Specific Acting Categories,” which garnered the most attention of anything I wrote that year. I followed that up with a piece in 2020, which suggested ways it could be done.
- 9/2/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The Independent Spirit Awards were the latest Hollywood voting body to go genderless with its awards, announcing on Aug. 23 that the best lead actress and best supporting actress awards were being retired forever.
Instead, there will be only “best lead performance” and “best supporting performance” awards handed out to a gender-diverse pool of 10 nominees in film and scripted series categories at the ceremony, scheduled for March 4, 2023.
To make up for the two eliminated categories, a new category, honoring a “breakthrough performance in film,” was added — for a total of seven total acting awards presented, down from eight previously.
This move follows similar ones made previously by the Grammys (which went genderless in 2012) and the Gotham Awards, which made a similar move in 2021.
“It’s something we’ve been discussing for a while,” says Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent, which mounts the Independent Spirit Awards.
The Independent Spirit Awards were the latest Hollywood voting body to go genderless with its awards, announcing on Aug. 23 that the best lead actress and best supporting actress awards were being retired forever.
Instead, there will be only “best lead performance” and “best supporting performance” awards handed out to a gender-diverse pool of 10 nominees in film and scripted series categories at the ceremony, scheduled for March 4, 2023.
To make up for the two eliminated categories, a new category, honoring a “breakthrough performance in film,” was added — for a total of seven total acting awards presented, down from eight previously.
This move follows similar ones made previously by the Grammys (which went genderless in 2012) and the Gotham Awards, which made a similar move in 2021.
“It’s something we’ve been discussing for a while,” says Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent, which mounts the Independent Spirit Awards.
- 8/30/2022
- by Seth Abramovitch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“The Lost Daughter” was the big winner, but the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards will also be remembered as the year that the Indie Spirits moved away from the Oscars in more ways than one.
After decades as the show that takes place the Saturday afternoon before the Academy Awards, the Spirit Awards moved to a Sunday three weeks earlier, with Film Independent president Josh Welsh explaining, “Shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate.”
The move was considered an attempt to influence awards season more than it could in its usual spot, which takes place after Oscar voting has stopped; this year, the Spirit Awards showcased its favorites before Academy voters could even begin casting their ballots.
But the date change didn’t really matter, because the Indie Spirit Awards’ connection to and...
After decades as the show that takes place the Saturday afternoon before the Academy Awards, the Spirit Awards moved to a Sunday three weeks earlier, with Film Independent president Josh Welsh explaining, “Shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate.”
The move was considered an attempt to influence awards season more than it could in its usual spot, which takes place after Oscar voting has stopped; this year, the Spirit Awards showcased its favorites before Academy voters could even begin casting their ballots.
But the date change didn’t really matter, because the Indie Spirit Awards’ connection to and...
- 3/7/2022
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards: ‘The Lost Daughter’ Takes the Top Prize (Complete Winners List)
The 37th annual Film Independent Spirit Awards were handed out Sunday at the Santa Monica Pier, with comedy power couple Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally serving as hosts.
There weren’t too many surprises throughout the night. Troy Kotsur won the first award of the evening, Best Supporting Male Actor for “Coda,” very much as predicted. Taylour Paige took home Best Female Lead Actor, for “Zola,” while Simon Rex, of “Red Rocket,” walked away with Best Male Lead. Ruth Negga won Best Supporting Female Actor for “Passing,” beating out Jessie Buckley from “The Lost Daughter.”
But Maggie Gyllenhaal’s adaptation of the Elena Ferrante book won the three other categories in which it was nominated — Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Feature — and was the night’s biggest victor. Gyllenhaal gave three effusive thank you speeches, spreading her appreciation around to her cast, crew, financiers, publicist, husband and mother. “Women in film!
There weren’t too many surprises throughout the night. Troy Kotsur won the first award of the evening, Best Supporting Male Actor for “Coda,” very much as predicted. Taylour Paige took home Best Female Lead Actor, for “Zola,” while Simon Rex, of “Red Rocket,” walked away with Best Male Lead. Ruth Negga won Best Supporting Female Actor for “Passing,” beating out Jessie Buckley from “The Lost Daughter.”
But Maggie Gyllenhaal’s adaptation of the Elena Ferrante book won the three other categories in which it was nominated — Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Feature — and was the night’s biggest victor. Gyllenhaal gave three effusive thank you speeches, spreading her appreciation around to her cast, crew, financiers, publicist, husband and mother. “Women in film!
- 3/6/2022
- by Missy Schwartz
- The Wrap
The 37th Independent Spirit Awards are underway, and the stars hit the red carpet at the Santa Monica Pier in California to celebrate.
The ceremony itself began at 5 p.m. Et/2 p.m. Pt and is broadcast on IFC and streamed on AMC Plus.
“Zola” leads films this year with seven nominations. Meanwhile, “Blindspotting,” “It’s a Sin,” “Rutherford Falls,” “Them: Covenant,” “The Underground Railroad” and “We Are Lady Parts” all tied with two television nominations.
“The Spirit Awards have always championed diverse, unique, independent storytelling; shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent.
Comedians Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman are hosting the ceremony.
“We are sincerely excited to be hosting the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards. We hope to get a little rowdy, but it’ll mainly be legitimate cinematic discourse.
The ceremony itself began at 5 p.m. Et/2 p.m. Pt and is broadcast on IFC and streamed on AMC Plus.
“Zola” leads films this year with seven nominations. Meanwhile, “Blindspotting,” “It’s a Sin,” “Rutherford Falls,” “Them: Covenant,” “The Underground Railroad” and “We Are Lady Parts” all tied with two television nominations.
“The Spirit Awards have always championed diverse, unique, independent storytelling; shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent.
Comedians Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman are hosting the ceremony.
“We are sincerely excited to be hosting the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards. We hope to get a little rowdy, but it’ll mainly be legitimate cinematic discourse.
- 3/6/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
In 2021, the Film Independent Spirit Awards went online in reaction to a then-still-raging pandemic, forcing nominees, guests, Film Independent members and even host Melissa Villaseñor to celebrate remotely. In 2022, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman have taken over hosting duties from Villaseñor, but the rest of those people will be back in the ceremony’s traditional venue, a tent near the Santa Monica beach.
To Film Independent president Josh Welsh, the return feels like a relief, especially after the Omicron variant wreaked havoc on in-person gatherings in December and January, risking another season of socially-distanced events. But despite his excitement, Welsh insists that the annual celebration of independent cinema has still not quite returned to normal. “It definitely does not feel like business as usual, and everything feels very different,” he tells Variety.
If you’ve been following awards-season pundits as they herald prospective winners, looking at Film Independent’s nominees...
To Film Independent president Josh Welsh, the return feels like a relief, especially after the Omicron variant wreaked havoc on in-person gatherings in December and January, risking another season of socially-distanced events. But despite his excitement, Welsh insists that the annual celebration of independent cinema has still not quite returned to normal. “It definitely does not feel like business as usual, and everything feels very different,” he tells Variety.
If you’ve been following awards-season pundits as they herald prospective winners, looking at Film Independent’s nominees...
- 3/6/2022
- by Todd Gilchrist
- Variety Film + TV
The Visual Effects Society will present Guillermo del Toro with Ves Award for Creative Excellence on March 8.
del Toro will be honored for his consummate artistry and expansive storytelling that blends iconic visual effects and unforgettable narrative. Harnessing his intuitive vision, del Toro has created a distinctive cinematic style mixing the world of monster movies, comic books and exuberant visuals straight from his imagination.
“Guillermo is a fiercely inventive storyteller, who has pushed the boundaries of filmmaking,” said Ves Board Chair Lisa Cooke. “An exemplary talent, he has consistently elevated not just the technical aspect of visual effects, but also the emotional. Guillermo is an amazing creative force and a defining voice in our global community, and his body of work is a rich source of inspiration for future generations of artists and innovators. For Guillermo’s outstanding mastery of his craft, we are proud to honor him with the...
del Toro will be honored for his consummate artistry and expansive storytelling that blends iconic visual effects and unforgettable narrative. Harnessing his intuitive vision, del Toro has created a distinctive cinematic style mixing the world of monster movies, comic books and exuberant visuals straight from his imagination.
“Guillermo is a fiercely inventive storyteller, who has pushed the boundaries of filmmaking,” said Ves Board Chair Lisa Cooke. “An exemplary talent, he has consistently elevated not just the technical aspect of visual effects, but also the emotional. Guillermo is an amazing creative force and a defining voice in our global community, and his body of work is a rich source of inspiration for future generations of artists and innovators. For Guillermo’s outstanding mastery of his craft, we are proud to honor him with the...
- 2/17/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
The 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards is returning to an in-person ceremony this year, and now the show has its hosts. Comedy power couple Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman will front the ceremony on March 6 at Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport.
The Spirits will stream live at 5 p.m. Pt via AMC+ and air on IFC.
“The dream team. Why have just one host when you can have two?” Film Independent President Josh Welsh said. “We’re delighted to have Megan and Nick onboard to bring the magic back to the beach. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.”
Mullally is an Emmy winner for Will & Grace and has appeared on Party Down and voices characters on Bob’s Burgers and The Great North. She also has played on Broadway. Offerman was a regular for the entire run of NBC’s Parks and Recreation...
The Spirits will stream live at 5 p.m. Pt via AMC+ and air on IFC.
“The dream team. Why have just one host when you can have two?” Film Independent President Josh Welsh said. “We’re delighted to have Megan and Nick onboard to bring the magic back to the beach. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.”
Mullally is an Emmy winner for Will & Grace and has appeared on Party Down and voices characters on Bob’s Burgers and The Great North. She also has played on Broadway. Offerman was a regular for the entire run of NBC’s Parks and Recreation...
- 2/11/2022
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
“Making It” work! After last year’s virtual Film Independent Spirit Awards ceremony, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman are slated to co-host the 2022 awards show in-person in Santa Monica on Sunday, March 6.
“We are sincerely excited to be hosting the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards. We hope to get a little rowdy, but it’ll mainly be legitimate cinematic discourse,” the comedy power couple said in a press statement. “Although, with the two of us involved, it’s more likely to be intercourse. Either way it’ll be legit.”
Emmy winner Mullally and “Pam & Tommy” star Offerman have toured the U.S. and the U.K. with joint comedy show, “Summer of 69: No Apostrophe,” and released The New York Times bestselling book, “The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.”
Film Independent President Josh Welsh called Mullally and Offerman the “dream team” to host. “Why have just one host when you can have two?...
“We are sincerely excited to be hosting the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards. We hope to get a little rowdy, but it’ll mainly be legitimate cinematic discourse,” the comedy power couple said in a press statement. “Although, with the two of us involved, it’s more likely to be intercourse. Either way it’ll be legit.”
Emmy winner Mullally and “Pam & Tommy” star Offerman have toured the U.S. and the U.K. with joint comedy show, “Summer of 69: No Apostrophe,” and released The New York Times bestselling book, “The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.”
Film Independent President Josh Welsh called Mullally and Offerman the “dream team” to host. “Why have just one host when you can have two?...
- 2/11/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Film Independent has set Alex Camilleri (Luzzu), Lizzie Shapiro (Shiva Baby) and Jessica Beshir (Faya Dayi) as the winners of its Emerging Filmmaker Awards, with each now earning an unrestricted $25,000 Spirit Awards cash grant.
Camilleri received the Someone to Watch Award, spotlighting talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition, with finalists for the prize including Michael Sarnoski (Pig) and Gillian Wallace Horvat (I Blame Society).
Shapiro nabbed the Producers Award, honoring emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality independent films. The finalists for this second award were Brad Becker-Parton and Pin-Chun Liu.
Thursday’s final grant recipient, Beshir, received the Truer Than Fiction Award, presented to an emerging director of non-fiction features who has not yet received significant recognition, besting finalists including Angelo Madsen Minax (North By Current) and Debbie Lum (Try Harder!).
“We are...
Camilleri received the Someone to Watch Award, spotlighting talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition, with finalists for the prize including Michael Sarnoski (Pig) and Gillian Wallace Horvat (I Blame Society).
Shapiro nabbed the Producers Award, honoring emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality independent films. The finalists for this second award were Brad Becker-Parton and Pin-Chun Liu.
Thursday’s final grant recipient, Beshir, received the Truer Than Fiction Award, presented to an emerging director of non-fiction features who has not yet received significant recognition, besting finalists including Angelo Madsen Minax (North By Current) and Debbie Lum (Try Harder!).
“We are...
- 2/10/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Alex Camilleri, Lizzie Shapiro and Jessica Beshir have received Film Independent’s $25,000 Spirit Awards cash grants for emerging filmmakers. The announcements were made by Ekwa Msangi (“Farewell Amor”), Gerry Kim (“I’m No Longer Here”) and Elegance Bratton (“Pier Kids”), who received the grants last year.
Camilleri, director of “Luzzu,” received the Someone to Watch Award. The prize is in its 28th year and recognizes talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition. Finalists for the award were Michael Sarnoski, director of “Pig,” and Gillian Wallace Horvat, director of “I Blame Society.”
Shapiro, producer of “Shiva Baby,” received the Producers Award. The award honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The award is in its 25th year. Finalists included Brad Becker-Parton, who produced “Italian Studies,” and Pin-Chun Liu, who produced “Test Pattern.”
Beshir, director of “Faya Dayi,...
Camilleri, director of “Luzzu,” received the Someone to Watch Award. The prize is in its 28th year and recognizes talented filmmakers of singular vision who have not yet received appropriate recognition. Finalists for the award were Michael Sarnoski, director of “Pig,” and Gillian Wallace Horvat, director of “I Blame Society.”
Shapiro, producer of “Shiva Baby,” received the Producers Award. The award honors emerging producers who, despite highly limited resources, demonstrate the creativity, tenacity and vision required to produce quality, independent films. The award is in its 25th year. Finalists included Brad Becker-Parton, who produced “Italian Studies,” and Pin-Chun Liu, who produced “Test Pattern.”
Beshir, director of “Faya Dayi,...
- 2/10/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Film Independent President Josh Welsh announced today that entertainment attorney and producer Brenda Robinson has been elected the new chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
- 1/26/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Brenda Robinson, an entertainment attorney, producer and partner at film financing and development company Gamechanger Films, has been elected the new chair of the board of directors at Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization behind the Spirit Awards.
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
- 1/26/2022
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Award season is finally upon us! Hot on the heels of the Golden Globes noms, here come the 37th Film Independent Spirit Awards. Naomi Watts, Beanie Feldstein and Regina Hall joined Film Independent president Josh Welsh in a pre-recorded video announcement to introduce the year's contenders on Tuesday, Dec. 14. Janicza Bravo's Zola, which was adapted from an epic 148-tweet thread about a dancer's violent and chaotic adventure through Florida after falling in with a grifter, led the pack of nominees with seven nods—including Best Feature, Best Screenplay, Best Director and Best Female Lead for Taylour Paige's performance of the titular character. Meanwhile, Lauren Hadaway's The...
- 12/14/2021
- E! Online
Exclusive: In a momentous move designed to shake up the movie awards season, and to have more influence on the Oscars themselves, Film Independent’s Independent Spirit Awards is moving from its longtime traditional day before the Academy Awards to a much earlier berth in 2022 on Sunday March 6 for its 37th annual ceremony. The 94th Academy Awards are set for three weeks later on March 27. This is a huge break with tradition and comes as the Spirit Awards look to get more traction with the viewing public, as well as exert more possible influence on potential Oscar winners as this new date falls the day before the Oscar nominees luncheon and also before final balloting begins for the Academy on March 17.
The correlation between the Best Film winner at the Spirits and the Best Picture Oscar has been growing closer in the past decade with six Spirit winners matching the Academy’s choice, an enviable recent track record indicating the Oscar’s tastes have been becoming more indie-oriented.
The show, usually taped in the afternoon for broadcast later that night, plans to go completely live and start at 5pm Pt (8pm Et) from its usual Santa Monica Beach tented locale. Though it has aired on IFC for several years Film Independent is not contractually obligated to continue with that deal, and in fact sources tell me they are open to negotiating a new deal with another broadcaster or streamer that might be interested in taking it on as it aims to forge new paths.
“The Spirit Awards have always championed diverse, unique, independent storytelling; shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent.
The 36th Film Independent Spirit Awards took place in a virtual ceremony due to the pandemic that actually broke tradition itself by airing 3 days before Oscars this year and was hosted by SNL star Melissa Villaseñor. For the first time in its history, the 2021 Spirit Awards also honored exceptional content in TV.
Sources tell me heavyweight insiders in the independent film world approached Film Independent executives including Welsh and lobbied for what they feel is a huge opportunity to increase the visibility, ratings, and importance of the Spirits. The feeling is the Spirits already is a more diverse and younger awards show, but have been handicapped by not being during the voting period. Insiders tell me they think there is a massive opportunity to essentially create a “new” awards show for viewers, and that is really what is behind this, a major opportunity to level up the Spirit Awards in terms of visibility for the public and industry. I am told it is hoped to be a much more viewer friendly experience, not attempting to replace anything but trying to create an awards show for a diverse, newer generation and wider audience.
No doubt the current problems of the HFPA and NBC’s cancellation of their Golden Globes 2022 ceremony has organizations taking notice and sensing the possibility for a sea change in terms of other shows. The Film Independent’s sub committee had in fact already been looking into making changes and welcomed the idea when it was presented to them, thus the go ahead.
2020’s Film Independent Spirit Awards recently won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Non-Fiction Special.
The correlation between the Best Film winner at the Spirits and the Best Picture Oscar has been growing closer in the past decade with six Spirit winners matching the Academy’s choice, an enviable recent track record indicating the Oscar’s tastes have been becoming more indie-oriented.
The show, usually taped in the afternoon for broadcast later that night, plans to go completely live and start at 5pm Pt (8pm Et) from its usual Santa Monica Beach tented locale. Though it has aired on IFC for several years Film Independent is not contractually obligated to continue with that deal, and in fact sources tell me they are open to negotiating a new deal with another broadcaster or streamer that might be interested in taking it on as it aims to forge new paths.
“The Spirit Awards have always championed diverse, unique, independent storytelling; shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent.
The 36th Film Independent Spirit Awards took place in a virtual ceremony due to the pandemic that actually broke tradition itself by airing 3 days before Oscars this year and was hosted by SNL star Melissa Villaseñor. For the first time in its history, the 2021 Spirit Awards also honored exceptional content in TV.
Sources tell me heavyweight insiders in the independent film world approached Film Independent executives including Welsh and lobbied for what they feel is a huge opportunity to increase the visibility, ratings, and importance of the Spirits. The feeling is the Spirits already is a more diverse and younger awards show, but have been handicapped by not being during the voting period. Insiders tell me they think there is a massive opportunity to essentially create a “new” awards show for viewers, and that is really what is behind this, a major opportunity to level up the Spirit Awards in terms of visibility for the public and industry. I am told it is hoped to be a much more viewer friendly experience, not attempting to replace anything but trying to create an awards show for a diverse, newer generation and wider audience.
No doubt the current problems of the HFPA and NBC’s cancellation of their Golden Globes 2022 ceremony has organizations taking notice and sensing the possibility for a sea change in terms of other shows. The Film Independent’s sub committee had in fact already been looking into making changes and welcomed the idea when it was presented to them, thus the go ahead.
2020’s Film Independent Spirit Awards recently won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Non-Fiction Special.
- 7/22/2021
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
The 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards, held virtually on Thursday evening, marked another big night for “Nomadland” and more of this year’s indie gems.
Usually a casual, day-drinking affair on the beach in Santa Monica, the digital ceremony marked the final stop before Sunday’s Academy Awards. The evening’s top prize of best feature went to “Nomadland,” as did best director to its helmer Chloé Zhao. Both have been steamrolling triumphantly through the pandemic-extended award season.
in this year’s nail-biting best actress race, Carey Mulligan notched a win for best female lead for her powerful turn in “Promising Young Woman.” She dedicated her award to a “true independent spirit,” the late British actress Helen McCrory. Riz Ahmed took best actor for his role in “Sound of Metal,” in a stacked category against Steven Yuen of “Minari” and the late Chadwick Boseman for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”
Winning in...
Usually a casual, day-drinking affair on the beach in Santa Monica, the digital ceremony marked the final stop before Sunday’s Academy Awards. The evening’s top prize of best feature went to “Nomadland,” as did best director to its helmer Chloé Zhao. Both have been steamrolling triumphantly through the pandemic-extended award season.
in this year’s nail-biting best actress race, Carey Mulligan notched a win for best female lead for her powerful turn in “Promising Young Woman.” She dedicated her award to a “true independent spirit,” the late British actress Helen McCrory. Riz Ahmed took best actor for his role in “Sound of Metal,” in a stacked category against Steven Yuen of “Minari” and the late Chadwick Boseman for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”
Winning in...
- 4/23/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Since 1984, the Film Independent Spirit Awards have provided a counterpoint to the Hollywood establishment’s back-patting: a scrappy celebration staged in a tent on the beach, anointing future visionaries rather than formalizing the status of industry titans. But in a year, and an industry, that has itself been so disrupted from business as usual, the only challenge that Josh Welsh and the team at Film Independent faced bigger than reacting to the seismic changes in film and television distribution was deciding how to celebrate them responsibly — if at all.
“On the one hand, you might say, with everything going on in the world, what could be more frivolous than an awards show?” the Film Independent president acknowledges to Variety. “But I really do believe that award shows have a special significance this year.
“For one thing, they allow us to give shape to what feels like a really shapeless year.
“On the one hand, you might say, with everything going on in the world, what could be more frivolous than an awards show?” the Film Independent president acknowledges to Variety. “But I really do believe that award shows have a special significance this year.
“For one thing, they allow us to give shape to what feels like a really shapeless year.
- 4/22/2021
- by Todd Gilchrist
- Variety Film + TV
Like many award ceremonies, 2021 Independent Spirit Awards are going virtual this year and they might have just found the perfect host to make it as entertaining as possible, Melissa Villaseñor. A cast member of “Saturday Night Live” since 1996, Villaseñor takes the reigns after two fantastic ceremonies hosted by Aubrey Plaza.
Read More: “Never Rarely Sometimes Always,” “Minari” and “I May Destroy You” top 2021 Spirit Awards nominations
In a statement from Film Independent, the peer organization of the Spirits, Melissa Villaseñor quipped, “As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards.”
Film Independent President Josh Welsh remarked, “We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards.
Continue reading ‘SNL’s’ Melissa Villaseñor To Host The 2021 Independent Spirit Awards at The Playlist.
Read More: “Never Rarely Sometimes Always,” “Minari” and “I May Destroy You” top 2021 Spirit Awards nominations
In a statement from Film Independent, the peer organization of the Spirits, Melissa Villaseñor quipped, “As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards.”
Film Independent President Josh Welsh remarked, “We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards.
Continue reading ‘SNL’s’ Melissa Villaseñor To Host The 2021 Independent Spirit Awards at The Playlist.
- 2/8/2021
- by Gregory Ellwood
- The Playlist
Film Independent has announced today that “Saturday Night Live” star Melissa Villaseñor has been tapped as host of the 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards on April 22. The comedian joins a long list of previous Indie Spirits hosts (including many of her “SNL” brethren), like Aubrey Plaza, Nick Kroll and John Mulaney, Kate McKinnon and Kumail Nanjiani, Fred Armisen and Kristen Bell, Patton Oswalt, Andy Samberg, Joel McHale, Sarah Silverman, Samuel L. Jackson, Queen Latifah, and John Waters.
“As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Villaseñor in an official statement. Added Film Independent President Josh Welsh, “We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards. The time to laugh has definitely arrived, and not a moment too soon.”
Said Blake Callaway, Executive Director, IFC and SundanceTV in...
“As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Villaseñor in an official statement. Added Film Independent President Josh Welsh, “We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards. The time to laugh has definitely arrived, and not a moment too soon.”
Said Blake Callaway, Executive Director, IFC and SundanceTV in...
- 2/8/2021
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Get ready for what looks to be a really funny Film Independent Spirit Awards ceremony, which will keep us in stiches for some time. The show, which will not be live from the Santa Monica Beach this year due to Covid, has tapped SNL’s Melissa Villaseñor to host this year’s 2021 edition.
Villaseñor, who cut her teeth on the stand-up circuit here in Los Angeles, and was further propelled by being a semifinalist on the 2011 edition of America’s Got Talent before landing on the SNL cast, is famed for her impersonations of such celebrities as Owen Wilson, Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, Lady Gaga, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and more. This year’s show will be airing on Thursday, April 22, on IFC and AMC+ at 10Pm Et, breaking tradition as the Spirits typically take place on the Saturday afternoon before Sunday’s Oscars.
Said Blake Callaway, Executive Director, IFC and SundanceTV,...
Villaseñor, who cut her teeth on the stand-up circuit here in Los Angeles, and was further propelled by being a semifinalist on the 2011 edition of America’s Got Talent before landing on the SNL cast, is famed for her impersonations of such celebrities as Owen Wilson, Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, Lady Gaga, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and more. This year’s show will be airing on Thursday, April 22, on IFC and AMC+ at 10Pm Et, breaking tradition as the Spirits typically take place on the Saturday afternoon before Sunday’s Oscars.
Said Blake Callaway, Executive Director, IFC and SundanceTV,...
- 2/8/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
“Saturday Night Live” star Melissa Villaseñor will host the 2021 Film Independent Spirit Awards on April 22, the organization announced on Monday.
She will host the first primetime version of the Spirit Awards, which this year will air on IFC on the Thursday night before the Oscars instead of the traditional Saturday afternoon event near the Santa Monica pier.
“As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Villaseñor, who in 2016 made history by becoming the first-ever Latina cast member on the long-running NBC show.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards,” Film Independent President Josh Welsh added in a statement. “The time to laugh has definitely arrived, and not a moment too soon.”
The organization also announced a Directors Close-Up program offering in-depth panel discussions with...
She will host the first primetime version of the Spirit Awards, which this year will air on IFC on the Thursday night before the Oscars instead of the traditional Saturday afternoon event near the Santa Monica pier.
“As someone who considers herself a pretty dependent person, I’m truly honored to host the Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Villaseñor, who in 2016 made history by becoming the first-ever Latina cast member on the long-running NBC show.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Melissa Villaseñor into the club of smart, funny film lovers to host the Spirit Awards,” Film Independent President Josh Welsh added in a statement. “The time to laugh has definitely arrived, and not a moment too soon.”
The organization also announced a Directors Close-Up program offering in-depth panel discussions with...
- 2/8/2021
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
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