The Austin Film Festival is proud to announce that producer Lauren Shuler Donner will be honored with the prestigious Polly Platt Award for Producing at its upcoming 30th edition. This award is a testament to her exceptional talent and her ability to recognize captivating stories and foster new talent. Donner has an impressive portfolio that includes blockbuster films such as the X-Men franchise, Pretty in Pink, Free Willy, and You’ve Got Mail. Her work extends beyond the big screen, as she has also executive produced several acclaimed television series. Donner’s contributions to the industry have been recognized by her peers, and she currently serves as the VP of Motion Pictures for the Producers Guild of America. This award is well-deserved recognition of her immense contributions to the world of film.
Writer-Producer James V. Hart Honored with the Heart of Film Award
Another distinguished honoree at the Austin Film Festival is writer-producer James V. Hart, who will be receiving the prestigious Heart of Film Award. This award pays tribute to Hart’s remarkable contributions to film and television, as well as his dedication to the screenwriting community. Hart’s work includes critically acclaimed films such as Hook, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and Contact, which he co-wrote for renowned director Robert Zemeckis. He has also worked on various other film projects, showcasing his versatility as a writer and producer. The Heart of Film Award is a fitting recognition of Hart’s immense talent and his valuable contributions to the world of storytelling.
Filmmaker So Young Shelly Yo Recognized with the New Voice Award
Filmmaker So Young Shelly Yo will be honored with the New Voice Award at the 30th Austin Film Festival. This award celebrates and acknowledges the unique and captivating voices in the world of film, television, and new media. Yo’s debut feature film, Smoking Tigers, has garnered critical acclaim and serves as a testament to her exceptional talent and storytelling ability. The film follows the journey of Hayoung, a 16-year-old Korean American girl who attempts to hide her troubled family background from her affluent friends. Smoking Tigers has received numerous accolades at the Tribeca Festival, including Best Screenplay and Actor. Yo’s recognition as a New Voice Award recipient is a testament to her promising future in the industry.
As part of the Austin Film Festival’s Writer Conference, the honorees, Lauren Shuler Donner, James V. Hart, and So Young Shelly Yo, will participate in various events. Donner will host a retrospective screening and a panel discussion that explores her remarkable body of work. Hart will conduct an “On Writing” panel focused on the critically acclaimed film Contact. Shelly Yo will engage in a Q&A session following a special screening of Smoking Tigers. These events provide an opportunity for festival attendees to gain insights into the creative minds of these esteemed film professionals.
In addition to the honorees, the Austin Writers Conference will feature captivating conversations with other industry luminaries. Showrunners Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson, and Jonathan Lisco of the hit series Yellowjackets, as well as True Detective creator Nic Pizzolatto, will share their experiences and insights with the conference attendees. The panelists include accomplished individuals such as Tracy Oliver (Girls Trip), Gavin O’Connor (Miracle), Dan Erickson (Severance), Pamela Ribon (Nimona), Michael Arndt (Little Miss Sunshine), and Karyn Kusama (Jennifer’s Body). The Austin Writers Conference promises to be a remarkable gathering of talented professionals, providing a platform for learning, inspiration, and networking.
The 30th Austin Film Festival promises to be a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the remarkable individuals who shape the industry. This prestigious event not only honors accomplished professionals like Lauren Shuler Donner, James V. Hart, and So Young Shelly Yo but also provides a platform for emerging talent to showcase their work. The festival offers a rich program of screenings, panels, and discussions that inspire, educate, and entertain. To be a part of this extraordinary event, make sure to purchase your badges and passes to the 30th Austin Film Festival now. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of cinema and connect with film enthusiasts from around the globe.
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