Documentaries on rappers Joy France and late musician Lumo win at Hebden Bridge Film Festival short competition

Documentaries about late Scottish musician Lumo and "rapping nana" Joy France won the Hebden Bridge Film Festival's shorts competition.
A still image from We Are All Here.A still image from We Are All Here.
A still image from We Are All Here.

Following the screening of all nine films and a Q&A with the filmmakers, the winners were announced last week.

We Are All Here, directed by Hannah Currie, won Best Short Film, for its exploration into the suicide of Glasgow rapper Lumo, as his family and friends uncover hidden messages in the lyrics and video diaries he left behind.

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Festival judges said the "unexpected candour of it's interviews, access to personal material and raw confrontation of mental health and masculinity in the Scottish hip hop community was compelling.

A scene from Joy Uncensored.A scene from Joy Uncensored.
A scene from Joy Uncensored.

"Astute, confident and emotive storytelling."

Joy Uncensored, by Hawthornthwaite, took the Audience Award, voted for by those who streamed the film online.

It shows how Salford 63-year-old Joy France took on the male-dominated rap battling world by going head-to-head in her first competition.

On this film, judges said the "story of Joy really resonated with audiences and we were delighted to be able to premiere this fabulous documentary".

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Louise Wadley, Hebden Bridge Film Festival director, said: “Although we were disappointed not to be able to have a live event, it was great to be able to showcase these nine diverse films. Congratulations to the winners and to all the filmmakers and thank you to everyone who donated to support the fabulous Hebden Bridge Picture House.

"I encourage all filmmakers to consider submitting for the 2021 festival when we hope to be back on the big screen.”

The event was free, but donations were encouraged for the Hebden Bridge Picture House, with more than £1,250 raised so far.

Submissions for the 2021 Short Film Competition are now open.

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