The jury members
Actress, director
She was born in Paris and is a documentary filmmaker, notably for L’œil et la main. Passionate about cinema since childhood, she was initially an actress before training in French Sign Language. After five years as an interpreter, she joined the L’œil et la main team as a director and collection manager. Working in a bilingual team was an enriching experience. She hopes to collaborate on writing scripts with both Deaf and hearing characters.
Professional director based in London
Louis Neethling, producer, director, and editor, began his TV career in 1993 as a presenter for SABC. He quickly advanced to roles as director and executive producer at The New Production Company. In 2001, he joined the BBC, directing various projects, including series for the Deaf community. Founder of MJP in 2007, Louis is known for producing award-winning sign language films and series. He is also dedicated to training Deaf talent worldwide and has been recognized for his contributions to Deaf media.
Production and distribution manager
Hélène, a production and distribution manager, has been passionate about cinema since childhood, when she experienced the behind-the-scenes of Le Bossu. After studying cinema, she specialized in production, a field she finds both exciting and challenging, especially for films involving Sign language. In 2013, she co-founded Eyes for Movie to support audiovisual projects in LSF. Her work focuses on accessibility, communication, and supporting Deaf filmmakers. She values trust, transparency, and effective communication in her professional journey.
Co-founder of the ETU
Originally from Toulouse, he is an actor, director, playwright, and trainer, co-founder of ETU. After 30 years in theater, he pursued screenwriting training and currently teaches dramaturgy in sign language. Passionate about pedagogy, he continues to share his knowledge with ETU and the Babel company. His cinematic project focuses on training actors and directors, with the goal of encouraging self-determination and personal growth.
Co-manager of the company Vice & Versa
Sophie, co-manager of the company Vice Versa, is a translator, interpreter, actress, and director, passionate about promoting Deaf culture and French Sign Language (LSF). She recently directed Le Tabou, incorporating LSF. Although her background is mainly in theater, she has a strong affinity for visual media. Her goal is to inspire and support young artists, emphasizing inclusion, mutual aid, and the recognition of diversity, particularly in the film industry.
The price list
Recognition of a French film in French Sign Language, with a team primarily composed of Deaf individuals who contributed to its production.
Recognition of a foreign film in a foreign or international sign language, with a team primarily composed of Deaf individuals who contributed to its production.
Recognition of a Deaf director who has demonstrated exceptional directing skills, based on the short film they have directed.
Recognition of a young Deaf director who has demonstrated exceptional directing skills, based on the short film they have directed.
Reward for the Deaf and signing actor who has demonstrated exceptional acting performance in the film they participated in.
Reward for the Deaf and signing actress who has demonstrated exceptional acting performance in the film she participated in.
Reward for the cinematographer who has demonstrated excellent cinematographic shots and lighting techniques, making the short film authentic.
Reward for the editor who has demonstrated creativity and seamless shot transitions, ensuring a smooth flow of the short film's shots.
Public vote at the end of the screening of the short films in competition during the Film’Ô festival.
