"First time director, Ha Le Diem, tells the compelling story of DI, a bold teenage girl from the Hmong community in North Vietnam caught between the cruel tradition of kidnapping girls for the purpose of marriage, and her wish to continue her childhood and go to school. With a clear eye and open heart, maturity, sensitivity, and without compromising the craft of her filmmaking, Ha Le Diem's gives life to a truly unique yet universal and political real-life story.Her colorful and vivid photography, combined with the intelligent editing makes Children of the Mist the stand-out film of this year's International Competition."

"A film made with great rigor over many years, this meticulous journey about life and labor is told richly in an awe-inspiring cinematic and sonic language. To be transported and immersed into this remote community is made all the more impressive as it is done without using a single word. In a chaotic world of fast and disposable imagery we were delighted with the restraint displayed in this beautiful odyssey which invites the viewer into a timeless and mesmerizing place."

Winner: Best editing for student film

"The honorable mention is given to a work that challenged what is possible using archival material. Displaying ingenuity and resourcefulness, creatively turning a disadvantage into a unique and enchanting language. The result is the unearthing of a secretive and intimate female world filled with love, compassion, and courage."

"Igor Ivanko sets out on an intimate quest to keep his beloved grandfather's memory, which is slowly deteriorating in front of his camera, alive. His charming grandfather, Leonid Burlaka, was once an acclaimed USSR cinematographer in Odessa. Now, Igor is desperately trying to revive Leonid's fragile memory and reclaim his legacy, by diving into his forgotten and damaged films. First time director Igor Ivanko's fresh, and humble approach makes this surprising film a moving story about the capacity of cinema to commemorate life."

"This strong film manages to convey an immersive experience, about words that go through people and affect them for life. Using original cinematic language, of minimalism and artistic precision, the film gives a voice to the usually transparent people who serve as translators, and manages to powerfully translate the burden and even pain that is inherent in their crucial craft. The stylised environment and the off-screen monologues create a distance, one which nevertheless generates emotions and stays with you. The film echoes all the conflict areas in the world, where people are witnessing violence, and emphasizes the responsibility of the people who are in charge of translating, in the broadest sense of the word, as well as the consequences of this act."