The Adelaide Film Festival wrapped up its 2025 edition on October 27 with major wins for Vanilla and She. The event in South Australia celebrated diverse films, handing out prizes that highlight global stories and fresh voices in cinema.
Top Honors for Feature Films
Vanilla, a family drama set in the 1980s, claimed the $10,000 Feature Fiction Award. Directed by Mayra Hermosillo, the Mexican film follows seven determined women battling to keep their home amid tough times, seen through the eyes of a young girl named Roberta.
Hermosillo shared her joy in a statement, noting how the win brings hope in a divided world. She pointed out that art can bridge cultures, as an Australian crowd connected deeply with her Mexican tale.
The jury praised the film’s mix of humor, warmth, and real emotion. They called it a story that embraces differences and finds beauty in flawed characters.
A special mention went to Reedland by Sven Bresser, a Dutch film about a man’s quest for justice after a tragic discovery. The jury liked its bold style and deep look at memory and manhood.
Documentary Award Spotlights Global Issues
She, directed by Parsifal Reparto, won the $10,000 Feature Documentary Award. This film dives into the lives of Vietnamese women working in factories far from home, showing how global changes affect their daily struggles.
The jury highlighted its honest view of these women’s strength and challenges. A special mention honored Sanatorium by Gar O’Rourke, set in Ukraine, for its raw take on war’s impact on people.
These awards show the festival’s focus on stories that tackle big world problems. She stands out for blending personal tales with broader themes like work and family separation.
Change Award and Short Film Winners
Australian director Abraham Joffe took the $5,000 Change Award for Trade Secret. This film uncovers hidden truths in the polar bear fur trade and its ties to conservation efforts.
The jury noted how it explores policy decisions and their lasting effects on nature and people. They said it pushes for new ways to think about environmental protection.
In the short film category, UK filmmaker May Kindred-Boothby earned the $3,000 prize. Her work impressed with creative storytelling and fresh ideas.
Here is a quick list of key winners:
- Feature Fiction: Vanilla by Mayra Hermosillo
- Feature Documentary: She by Parsifal Reparto
- Change Award: Trade Secret by Abraham Joffe
- Short Film: Work by May Kindred-Boothby
Jury Insights and Special Mentions
The jury included experts like Pavel Cortés, Marion Pilowsky, Jub Clerc, and John Sheedy for main awards. They looked for films that blend strong visuals with deep human truths.
For the Change Award, judges Natasha Gadd, Katrina Lucas, and Adelaide Xerri focused on impact. They wanted entries that spark real world conversations.
Special mentions added depth to the night. Reedland got nods for its lyrical style, while Sanatorium stood out for its atmosphere in tough settings.
These choices reflect a push for diverse voices. Films from Mexico, Vietnam, and beyond show cinema’s power to unite.
Festival Impact and Broader Trends
This year’s festival drew big crowds and set new records for attendance. It featured over 120 films, including world premieres and hits from Cannes.
Adelaide Film Festival has grown since starting in 2003. It now boosts local talent and brings international stories to Australian screens.
Recent events like the 2025 Venice Film Festival echo this global vibe, with awards going to films on similar themes of identity and change.
| Award Category | Winner | Director | Prize Amount | Key Theme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feature Fiction | Vanilla | Mayra Hermosillo | $10,000 | Family and solidarity |
| Feature Documentary | She | Parsifal Reparto | $10,000 | Globalization and women |
| Change Award | Trade Secret | Abraham Joffe | $5,000 | Environmental secrets |
| Short Film | [Work/Entry] | May Kindred-Boothby | $3,000 | Creative narratives |
Looking Ahead for Filmmakers
Winners like Hermosillo see this as a boost for more inclusive stories. The festival plans to expand in 2026, with more focus on emerging directors.
These awards could lead to wider releases and more buzz. Films like Vanilla might hit streaming platforms soon, reaching global viewers.
Share your thoughts on these winners in the comments. Which film are you excited to watch next?
