The 11th Emirates Film Festival (EFF) concluded very recently, with a dazzling awards ceremony held in Dubai. The festival celebrated outstanding talents in independent filmmaking, showcasing diverse narratives and unique perspectives from the UAE and beyond. Hosted by the visionary EFF founder and CEO, Ron Awa, the event highlighted the achievements of emerging filmmakers, seasoned actors, and creative visionaries who have contributed immensely to the vibrant independent film community.
Ron Awa expressed his gratitude to the participants and the festival’s supporters, stating, “Your creativity and commitment play a vital role in keeping this industry vibrant and innovative. We are genuinely excited about the opportunity to showcase your remarkable work in a wide-screen cinema setting at future awards.” He also explained the festival’s decision to omit certain categories, such as International Feature Film, this year, emphasizing the need to align with current resources while promising an enhanced experience for upcoming editions.
The Winners
Major Awards
Best Film (Overseas): Avanthika by Anil K.C.
Best Film (UAE): Determined by Rosella Age and Joe Alexander, who also secured the Best Director (UAE) award for the same film.
EFF 2025 People’s Choice Award: Alone – the Loop by Amal Surendran.
Best Actor: Enzo Pineda for As the Call, So the Echo.
Best Actress (Overseas): Mia Aquino for Isa Sa Isang Daan.
Best Actress (UAE): Meljun Viloria De Ocampo for Post Parto.
Best Actor (UAE): Joseph Binayao for Post Parto.
Best Supporting Actor: Romnick Sarmenta for Occupied and Kamlesh Bablani for Pencil.
Best Supporting Actress: Jen Caisip for Abnegasyon and Swathi Shemil for Towards Her.
Best Documentary Film: Dark Forest by Maryam Abdulghaffar.
Best Original Song: “Pagod at Puyat” from Abnegasyon, composed by Ma. Clarissa Xyna Faminiano.
Technical Excellence
Best Screenplay: Shaji N Pushpangadan for Just a Visit.
Best Editing: Umesh Chandra Javagi for The Vision.
Best Cinematography: Nikhil Indulkar for Determined.
Best in Visual Effects: Sherwin De Leon for Eskoba.
Emerging Talents
EFF spotlighted emerging filmmakers, awarding:
Marman Ramirez (Fumao), Kay Cyrus Castellano (Post Parto), Sanjay Sanwal (Kannu), Allen Saflor (Occupied), and Franky Arrocena (Hello Daisy).
Special Recognition
Best Emirati Filmmaker and Producer: Khalid Al Zarooni for 70 Rupees.
Best Film Created by a Female Director: Exit 59 by April Pearl Delos Reyes and Adios My Love by Sneha Karar.
Best Fantasy Film: Jelly’s Universe by Nekib Ahmed.
Best Experimental Film: Not Alone by Maryam Imogen Ghouth.
Best Child Performers (UAE): Shimei Martinez and Cassanda Brian Cerilo for Fumao.
Best Child Performer (Overseas): Mehboob for 70 Rupees.
