BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION)
SDPF3 ‘The Heist’
Patriot Films | Anton Visser

Awarded by Peter Little

Judge’s comment: ‘From the moment the letterboxing retreated revealing the cityscape, I was transfixed. While the meticulous craft and detail in every aspect of this piece was impeccable, it was the direction that fused all the elements together that made this piece truly special and why I feel this is the craft winner for November. When the craft is of such a high level, it becomes almost invisible, leaving one just totally immersed in the story. This piece truly honours the Bank Heist genre, with every shot, every character and every lighting set up so carefully considered, resulting in a blockbuster feel that could sit comfortably in a Christopher Nolan piece like Dark Knight Rises.‘ – Peter Little, Chief Creative Officer at Publicis Groupe Africa

BEST IN CRAFT (DIRECTION)
Chicken Licken ‘Piki Piki Mabelane’
Giant Films | Karien Cherry

Awarded by Tessa Ford

Judge’s comment: ‘Karien’s natural talent for storytelling comes alive in this performance. With her unique blend of experience, skill, and insight, she delivers a seamless and captivating narrative that feels incredibly relatable. The character she’s crafted is rich with layers and depth, making us feel every emotion—because who hasn’t been there? This is a fresh twist on the classic Chicken Licken humour, and I love it!‘ – Tessa Ford, Owner & Editor at Tessa Ford Post

CRAFT MENTION (ONLINE – VFX CRAFT)
Makro ‘Makro 2.0’
Gentlemen Films | Polycat Animation

Awarded by Peter Little

Judge’s comment: ‘From ‘mini-me’s’ to out of this world journeys, this piece had it all, with flawlessly integrated VFX and live action. A real visual feast that amplifies the super quirky nature of the commercial perfectly.’

CRAFT MENTION (SOUND – FINAL MIX CRAFT)
KFC ’40th Cake’
Howard Audio | Paul Theodorou

Awarded by Peter Little

Judge’s comment: ‘The effortless integration of music, sound effects and live sound really elevated this super crazy-cool piece. That intricate dance of raising the tension while driving the humour throughout was masterfully curated.’

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION & EDITING CRAFT)
Red Bull ‘Bringing Formula 1 Back to South Africa’
Editor | Andrew Kirkby at Iconic Agency
Director | Sam Coleman at Patriot Films
*Entered by Iconic Agency on behalf of Sam Coleman

Awarded by Tessa Ford

Judge’s comment: ‘Red Bull deserves a special mention for its brilliant direction and sharp editing. It’s packed with nuanced comedic moments, elevated by a great sound design and a well-crafted edit. It brings an exciting and vibrant possibility to life for South Africa. Well done to Sam Coleman for putting such a big VFX board together with editor Andrew Kirkby – a fantastic teamup!‘

CRAFT MENTION (DIRECTION CRAFT)
Xiaomi South Africa ‘Xiaomi: Ludumo – The Miracle Man’
Lucky Hustle/JumpShip Media | Shilo Maloney

Awarded by Tessa Ford

Judge’s comment: ‘There is something very powerful about this film’s sincerity, honesty, and simplicity. It hits all the right emotional notes. Shilo draws us in with a performance that feels deeply authentic, taking us on a heartfelt journey.  It’s a story of resilience that reminds us that even when our dreams are shattered, hope can always shine through. Truly moving and inspiring!‘