Filmmaker of the Year | awards
Content creator The new wave of podcasting
Music video Harmony between sound and vision
There was a clear winner in the music video class, as Canadian filmmaker Braedin Toth created a video for indie-folk band Hollow Coves. It perfectly captures the spirit of adventure, freedom and self-discovery that runs through their track On the Way . The project was years in the making without Toth even knowing it. Hollow Coves’ music had been part of his life since his early days as a filmmaker, soundtracking many of his personal projects and travel films. During the pandemic, he restored a 1974 Volkswagen campervan before finally embarking on a dream road trip from Vancouver down the US west coast to California. When Hollow Coves approached him to create a music video for their latest release, Toth realised he already had the perfect footage from his journey. He crafted a film that feels authentic, emotional and beautifully connected to the music.
Content creators must compete in crowded feeds while delivering work that looks professional and engaging. This year’s content creator winner, Gary Freeman, has mastered that balance. Freeman produces the video version of the long-running Morrissey and Wine podcast, transforming audio discussions about Morrissey and his former band The Smiths into polished, visually engaging productions. What impressed the judges was the level of production value he brings to a format that could have just been a filmed conversation. Instead, Freeman has built a sophisticated studio set-up featuring cinematic lighting and Blackmagic cameras. Thoughtful camera work, lighting and strong technical execution elevate the viewing experience while ensuring the discussion remains the focus.
Editing Where it all comes together
Open When creativity leads
Great editing is often invisible. When it’s done well, audiences don’t notice the cuts, transitions or timing – they simply become immersed in the story. This year’s editing winner is Melvyn Loh, whose corporate film What Is a Business? shows how powerful thoughtful post-production can be. Tasked with explaining the role of a modern business, Loh transformed a straightforward corporate video into a dynamic piece of filmmaking. Through carefully judged pacing, precise visual timing and seamless integration of sound, graphics and imagery, the film maintains momentum from start to finish. Every cut feels purposeful, helping viewers absorb complex ideas while keeping the film engaging and accessible. Adding to his sound award, Loh is a worthy winner, which proves he’s the master of creating stunning commercial videos.
The open category is where filmmakers are free to follow their imagination. It celebrates ambitious projects that stand out. This year’s winner is Mike Fox for The Haunted – Perception Is Reality , an accomplished psychological thriller that blends horror and science fiction into a gripping and visually striking narrative. Running to 46 minutes, the film follows a man haunted by past trauma who turns to an experimental virtual-reality therapy. The judges were captivated by the film’s cinematic ambition. From beautifully composed shots and atmospheric lighting to a stunning dolly zoom sequence that horror fans will instantly recognise, every frame demonstrates a filmmaker working at the height of his craft. Strong performances, confident direction and exceptional sound design combine to create a genuinely immersive experience. It’s a bold, accomplished piece of filmmaking.
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