International Documentary Association Fetes Top Docs of 2007A Walk to Beautiful took top honors in the feature length competition in Los Angeles on Dec. 7 at the 2007 International Documentary Association (IDA) Distinguished Documentary Achievement Awards Gala Benefit at the Directors Guild of America Theatre. The documentary, from director-producer Mary Olive Smith and executive producer Steve Engel, focuses on five courageous women in Ethiopia who have suffered from devastating childbirth injuries and have been shunned by their family and villages. The film follows the trials they endure and their attempts to rebuild their lives. “The IDA Awards are presented to individuals who have earned the respect of their peers for their extraordinary achievements,” says IDA President diane estelle Vicari. “These films are a history of our times, and the conscience and soul of our global community. The films honored here tonight both enlighten and entertain, which is a rare combination these days.” The other nominated films were Crazy Love, Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience, Sicko, and Taxi to the Dark Side. A Son's Sacrifice, from director Yoni Brook, producer Musa Sheed and executive producer Marco Williams, won the IDA short documentary (40 minutes or less) competition. The film follows the journey of Imran, a young American Muslim who confronts his roots at his father's slaughterhouse in New York City. On the holiest day of the year, Imran must lead his community in a sacrifice that forces him to define himself as a Muslim and a son. The other nominated short films were Black and White, Body & Soul: Diana & Kathy, The Fighting Cholitas, and Freeheld. |