New York International Independent Film and Video Festival

Annual Awards Party

The New York International Independent Film and Video Festival (NYIIFVF) will host its annual awards party honoring the winners of its Fall/Winter film event. On Saturday, February 10th from 8-10:30PM at Chelsea nightspot Fusion 215, more than forty established and up-and-coming directors, producers, actors, cinematographers and screenwriters will be celebrated for their achievements in independent film.

This year's festival proved to be a breakout event for documentaries. Standouts in the documentary category include “Out From Ali's Shadow: The Larry Holmes Story,” directed by Evan Grant; “Shooting Henry Hill,” Luke Heppner's dramatic crime doc about the famous ex-mobster; the touching “Heart to Heart,” narrated by Patrick Dempsey; “Murder in America,” a look at the tragic killing of 12-year-old Sarah Cheery; and “Animal People: the Humane Movement in America,” with Tippi Hedren. The feature film category will also be stocked with award-winning nominees. These include “Rapturious,” a horror film from Kamal Ahmed, and “Idiots R Us” from Michael P. Russin. The impressive shorts category features Esteph Muniz's “ECOS” and Kimball Carr's “Samaritan.”

The NYIIFVF promises a fitting tribute to its worthy award winners, focusing on the importance of recognizing independent film. The festival was founded in 1993 and is among the largest competitive independent film events in the world. NYIIFVF provides a platform for both new and experienced filmmakers to gain exposure and distribution deals.

Sponsors for the event include nightlife impresario Ruben Cabrera of 212clublist, IFQ Magazine and JT Talent & Casting. For more information about the ceremony and festival visit www.nyfilmvideo.com. -Christina Polizoto