March 2023, Denver Monthly Film Awards

Greetings film enthusiasts! We are thrilled to share the excitement and anticipation of the March 2023 Denver Monthly Film Awards. As the curtain rises on this prestigious event, we are honored to showcase the nominees and winners in three distinct categories: super short films under 6 minutes, short films between 6 and 45 minutes, and feature films above 45 minutes.

Category: Best Super-short Film

First up, we have the super short films category, where filmmakers have pushed the boundaries of storytelling within the confines of 6 minutes or less. From thought-provoking dramas to heartwarming comedies, these films are a testament to the power of brevity in storytelling. Our esteemed panel of judges had the challenging task of selecting the nominees and ultimately, the winner for this category.

RankFilm TitleCountry of origin
WinnerImaginary Friend PracticeUnited States
FinalistMariposasUnited States
FinalistI dream My dreamNetherlands
FinalistCupcakeHungary
NomineeDog TagsUnited States
NomineeNosePoland
NomineeAstrolabeUnited States
NomineeLove, DaddyUnited States
NomineeSound of the ShadowSpain
NomineeMorning RoutineBulgaria
NomineeUnder The Endless SkyUkraine
NomineePetuniaRussian Federation
NomineeLoving the UnlovableUnited States
NomineeYo todavía (I’m still me)Spain

Category: Best Short Film

Next, we have the short films category, featuring films ranging from 6 to 45 minutes in length. These films captivate audiences with their unique narratives, compelling characters, and stunning visuals. From gripping thrillers to poignant documentaries, the nominees in this category represent the diverse and dynamic world of cinema.

RankFilm TitleCountry of origin
WinnerThe Call of WaterUnited States
FinalistShapes of AetherAustria
FinalistValkyriesGermany
FinalistINTERNO 5Italy
FinalistLaunch at ParadiseUnited States
FinalistBackyard BlackbirdUnited States
Nominees7_minutos
9/11: One Man’s Journey
A conversation with E
Bouchaib
Brujas (Witches)
Dance steps
Dying to be Thin
Early Retirement
Figure It Out
first dates: the rom com documentary
Frog Pimp
GUN OF A PREACHER MAN
Hero
Hindsight
I Am a Very Special Being
I Mustache You
Just Like Water
NIGHT/LEYL
Our Flag Was Still There
Polite Wolf
See The Sunrise
SIDELINES
Splorry
Te Veo
The Conglomerate
The Real Beauty
The Ring
The Seed of Hope
The Solitary Cell (POC)
The Taking of Harris Neck | Documentary Short
The Wall
TUNNEL
Was That a Yes?
Where dreams fall
Winter Night Dream
Witness		–

Category: Best Feature Film

Last, we have the feature films category, showcasing the best of the best in filmmaking. These films have taken audiences on unforgettable journeys, weaving rich stories and showcasing exceptional performances. From epic dramas to heartwarming comedies, the nominees in this category have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

RankFilm TitleCountry of origin
WinnerThe Group (Balagam)India
FinalistULTIMATE DESTINATIONSItaly
FinalistApocalypse Love StoryUnited States
FinalistConfiniItaly
NomineesNinja in the Mafia’s Shadow
JUAN MARINÉ, BETWEEN LIGHT AND SHADOW
PUGLYA
The Next Morning		–

Category: Best Director

RankNameFilm Title
WinnerElias Benedikt Choi-ButtingerShapes of Aether
FinalistSiddhartha PrestinariINTERNO 5
FinalistKaya ToneThe Call of Water
FinalistPiero De Luca, Massimiliano AielloConfini

Category: Best Actress

RankNameFilm Title
WinnerCatherine Curtin (role of “Dr. Barget”)Launch at Paradise
FinalistKata DomjánCupcake
FinalistTrinity SimpsonThe Call of Water
FinalistKayden Brenna TokarskiApocalypse Love Story

Category: Best Actor

RankNameFilm Title
WinnerJeremy CarrBackyard Blackbird
FinalistPriydarshi PulikondaThe Group (Balagam)
FinalistAdolfo MargiottaDance steps