BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION)
Castle Lager ‘Here’s To The Fans Who Stood The Test Of Time’

Giant Films | WARD (Paul Ward)
Pressure Cooker Studios | Alex Smillie

Awarded by Galaletsang Kgoathe

Judge’s comment on DIRECTION & FINAL MIX CRAFT:
“This piece is a lovely ode to Bafana fans who have stuck with the team through thick and thin. What’s even lovelier is how Paul brought to life the rollercoaster of emotions that supporters have experienced for the last three decades. The storytelling is effortless, the editing is seamless and the performances are well-nuanced, while the sound design and music hit the right notes.”

– Galaletsang Kgoathe, Creative Partner at Ogilvy South Africa

BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION)
Vanco ‘Repeat’
Robot | Craig Moore

Awarded by Marc Algranti

Judge’s comment on DIRECTION:
“From the very first frame, I was hooked. Craig establishes a raw, infectious energy that immediately draws the audience into the world of the film, creating a tone that is both authentic and compelling.
The direction of the performances is particularly impressive. They’re beautifully understated, allowing the emotion to emerge naturally rather than feeling forced. This restraint gives the film a genuine, gritty quality that makes the characters feel believable and relatable.
The energy is palpable throughout, and I never felt like I was simply watching events unfold – I felt completely present with the characters, experiencing the story alongside them.”

– Marc Algranti, Music Supervisor at Algranti Music

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION)
Liberty ‘Games Night’ (Director’s Cut)
Darling Films | Thea Small

Awarded by Galaletsang Kgoathe

Judge’s comment on DIRECTION:
“The magic of this film lies in the subtle choices that play a significant role in elevating it. The timely cuts between the different characters add to their performances and give the audience time to immerse themselves in those moments, while the straight delivery of the dialogue gives it a humorous undertone. This piece is well-directed, well-considered, and well-executed.”

– Galaletsang Kgoathe, Creative Partner at Ogilvy South Africa

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION)
Chicken Licken ‘Soul Sisters’
The Star Film Company | Tristan Holmes

Awarded by Galaletsang Kgoathe

CRAFT MENTION (CINEMATOGRAPHY CRAFT)
Chicken Licken ‘Soul Sisters’
Werner Maritz
(Entered of behalf of Werner Maritz by The Star Film Company)

Awarded by Galaletsang Kgoathe

Judge’s comment on DIRECTION & CINEMATOGRAPHY CRAFT:
“From a satellite hovering in outer space to snaking our way into an office in Jozi, this piece lends itself to the action movie genre that it references beautifully by leaning into the right tropes and executing them well. The cinematic world, great casting, fast-cut edits, immersive camera language, and high-octane music all come together to deliver a gripping and entertaining film.”

– Galaletsang Kgoathe, Creative Partner at Ogilvy South Africa

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION)
Castle Lager ‘Here’s To The Fans Who Stood The Test Of Time’
Giant Films | WARD (Paul Ward)

Awarded by Marc Algranti

Judge’s comment on DIRECTION:
“First off, I wanted to mention that I was the music supervisor and played a key role in overseeing the music production. This film is all about emotion – nothing feels forced by Paul. It’s about trusting real faces and real emotions. Each close-up really brings me to the feeling of watching my team play. This is a true nod to the supporters rather than the players, which is a refreshing change from most ‘sports’ commercials. It’s exceptionally well crafted, emotionally resonant, the performance is authentic, shows a director with the confidence to let the story breathe and an amazing balance between intimacy and spectacle.“

– Marc Algranti, Music Supervisor at Algranti Music