THE DISTANT BARKING OF DOGS wins yet another prize, this time in Munich at the 33rd International Documentary Film Festival. Director Simon Lereng Wilmont was awarded Saturday night with the VIKTOR Main Competition DOK.international Award and its 10,000 EUR prize.
Sponsored by Bayerischer Rundfunk and Global Screen, the Viktor Award recognizes films across a broad spectrum that stand out because of their artistic quality.
From the jury statement: "This year‘s winner tells the story of life on the frontlines through the eyes of children. Without ever showing tanks, soldiers or death directly the filmmaker is able to convey the deep impact war has on human beings. The director sets himself apart with his clear point of view and his profound understanding of cinema. With extraordinary images, powerful sound design and precise editing, he succeeds in turning an individual story into an universal one."
You can see the full list of winners here.
The Distant Barking of Dogs, produced by Monica Hellström, follows the life of 10-year-old Ukrainian boy Oleg throughout a year, witnessing the gradual erosion of his innocence beneath the pressures of war. This is the 6th major international award for the film.