We present the winners of the BALINALE – Bali International Film Festival, which took place from June 1 – 4, 2023.

Feature Narrative

Best Feature Narrative

The women of an isolated religious colony reveal a shocking secret about the colony’s men, who for years have drugged and then raped them.

Jury statement:
The intense drama and constant anticipation of what would unfold next kept us engaged throughout. While we believed we had an idea of how the ending would transpire, the filmmaker skillfully crafted an unexpected conclusion. The acting performances from a multitude of previously unseen characters were exceptional, deserving of five stars. This film holds significant importance within the Women empowerment, making it a truly significant piece of cinema.

Trailer:

Feature Documentary

Best Feature Documentary

A filmmaker seeks guidance at a strict Japanese monastery after living a secret life but finds an unconventional monk who loves ice cream and heavy metal.

Jury statement:
What truly captivated us about this particular film was the exceptionally challenging access it managed to attain. The filmmaker’s unwavering tenacity to persist in creating the film, despite numerous instances of denied access during its production, stood out prominently. However, the most crucial aspect was the emotionally charged ending within this intricate narrative that explores the collision of Muslim, Buddhist, and Western beliefs. It is undoubtedly a must-watch experience.

Trailer:

Short Narrative

Best Short Narrative

A young scam call operator is thrust into a moral dilemma as she navigates a life-changing situation.

Jury statement:
In a remarkably concise timeframe, this film adeptly delves into numerous intricate issues. It astutely portrays the diverse spectrum of socio-economic challenges prevalent within its country, where individuals from underprivileged backgrounds are compelled to seize the readily available yet morally questionable opportunities. The narrative goes beyond the main character, encapsulating the collective struggle of the underprivileged who are coerced into becoming “predators” in order to survive, even if it means sacrificing their own kin.

Trailer:

Special Jury Mention

Three widowed retirees embark on a European bus tour, eager to experience the wonders of tourism they’ve heard about all their lives.

Jury statement:
Every moment from a bird’s-eye view was filled with delightful simplicity and a genuine connection to the subject matter. It felt like embarking on a journey alongside the characters, where humor effortlessly intertwined with the unfolding narrative.

Trailer:

Short Documentary

Best Short Documentary

Behind the Seen by Robin Gurney, Lawrence Blair – Indonesia | 21 minutes

Dr. Lawrence Blair, of Ring of Fire, takes us on an adventure cruise through the remote Forgotten Islands of Indonesia, ‘seeing’ the world anew through the latest discoveries of the biological sciences, which suggest that Nature is alive with hidden intelligence. An adventure of the mind and the heart.

Jury statement:
An epic tale that serves as a poignant reminder of our humble place as guests in a wondrous universe. We find ourselves longing for a lengthier exploration of this narrative and harboring hope that the filmmakers will undertake the task of editing it into a feature version, as well as transforming it into a captivating series. The storytelling is flawless, with a perfect narrative crafted by a truly exceptional storyteller. Dr. Lawrence Blair stands alone in possessing the remarkable ability to elevate a documentary into an extraordinary epic tale.

Special Jury Mention

Forgotten by Roberto Natali – Indonesia | 31 minutes

Bali hides a severe clean water issue. Villagers in rural areas use toxic water daily and the city’s polluted rivers are compromising the population’s health.

Jury statement:
This is a story that sheds light on the dedicated organizations and individuals striving to eradicate the issue of waste, which has been plaguing Bali’s pristine environment for several decades. The film follows these groups as they work tirelessly to raise awareness among both the Balinese community and the island’s visitors.

Gary L Hayes Award for Indonesian Filmmaker

Dangdut musician Ubay and his group want to record their songs before getting older. With help from a friend, they overcome obstacles and pursue their passion.

Jury statement:
An outstanding endeavor that transported us into the backstreets of Jakarta on a captivating musical journey. It depicts a busking village where dreams flourish, despite the scarcity of resources and equipment. Against all odds, the filmmaker beautifully showcases the massive aspirations of the characters, painting a vivid picture of their resilience and determination. This is exactly the type of filmmaker Gary L. Hayes would encourage and certainly recognize in their unique and independent voice.

American Indonesian Culture and Education Foundation Prize

Orpa (13) is a bookish Papuan girl who is to be married by her father to a wealthy man from Jayapura. She decides to run away one night to pursue her dream of attending school in Wamena.

Jury statement:
This film encapsulates the challenges faced by a young woman as she strives to carve her own path, breaking free from the constraints of societal expectations and traditional norms. Set against the backdrop of the captivating Papua Island, the filmmaker brings an authentic perspective to the narrative. It is a compelling exploration of personal growth and empowerment, highlighting the unique experiences and struggles of individuals in this region.

Committee Choice Award

Three individuals in Bali – a young man, a little girl, and an artist – come together to combat poverty and plastic pollution.

Jury statement:
Going beyond the boundaries of traditional filmmaking, the filmmaker wholeheartedly embraced their subject demonstrating a deep connection and love for them, their dedication was so profound that they devoted years of their life to the characters they began filming. Their passion and commitment shine through in the final result, creating a truly impactful and intimate cinematic experience.