You may recall that our project, formerly “Beasts of the Southern Wild,” currently “(Untitled Court 13 Southern Apocalypse Comedy)” qualified to become an Sundance/NHK International Filmmakers Award finalist. The new news is that we won! One of four winners from around the world, the project is now guaranteed distribution on Japanese TV, and will collect $85,000 towards its completion! Benh and company were on hand at Sundance to receive the gracious accolade from our Japanese counterparts.

In Sundance’s own words:

Sundance Institute and NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) today announced the winners of the 2010 Sundance / NHK International Filmmakers Awards. The four winners were selected from 12 finalists by members of an International Jury…

Originally created to celebrate 100 years of Cinema, the annual award recognizes and supports four visionary filmmakers from Europe, Latin America, the United States, and Japan on their next films. Each winner receives approximately $100,000 ($10,000 as a cash award and a guarantee from NHK to purchase the Japanese television broadcast rights). In addition, Sundance Institute staff works closely with the winners throughout the year, providing creative and strategic support through the development, financing and production of their films.

“This year’s winners unsettle, delight and move audiences with their innovative and inspiring work. We celebrate each of their distinct styles and the unique lens through which they view the world”, said Alesia Weston, Associate Director of Sundance’s Feature Film Program, International.

As we head into pre-production in just a few short weeks, we wholeheartedly promise that we will deliver cinema that will unsettle, delight, and move you (but probably not in that order).

Thanks to Sundance for accommodating the Court in the last week. We had a grand old time, especially being the only Saints fans in a bar room full of Vikings fans, during the NFC Championship.

GO SAINTS!