Film buffs of all genres contributed to the record crowds attending this year’s Gimli Film Festival.
The 15th annual five-day event hit an all-time high of 3,853 patrons taking in indoor screenings, with a total of 9,400 attending in all venues, including more than 5,000 to the outdoor beach screenings.
Saturday night’s closing reception attracted 200 people, with the highlight of the night being the introduction of two new awards.
Sturla Gunnarrson, director of the documentary “Monsoon,” took home the Alda Award in celebration of excellence in circumpolar filmmaking.
Michael Scott was named the first recipient of the “Livin’ the Dream” award, having mentored a generation of exceptional filmmakers who went on to create a thriving Manitoba film community.
The festival also unveiled a new look this year, with a freshly-designed website, new mobile app and new fluorescent pink and cyan colours for its branding. A survey is available online to gauge feedback on all aspects of this year’s Gimli Film Festival.
