Independent filmmakers find their “place in the sun” at Excellence In Visual Media Awards International

LOS ANGELES, California (Eagle News Service) – In less than a week, the Excellence in Visual Media (EVM) Awards International of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) will arrive at the iconic Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California.

On Monday, October 29, 2018, the festivities will kick off with the VIP Red Carpet Arrivals at 4 p.m. followed by doors opening at 5 p.m. Ticket holders, film directors, producers, actors, cast, and crew, are expected to fill the venue to its 7,100 capacity.

This annual and ever-expanding awards show highlights the artistic skills and talents of promising filmmakers from around the globe. This year the show will feature nominees from Europe and Asia to the United States and Canada.

“This year’s EVM Awards International is indeed a very memorable one,” explains Bro. Eduardo G. Javier, the District Minister in the Southwest California District of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. “Come to think of it, it is being done in a world class facility – the Microsoft Theater. The place itself will show that the films produced by the members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo are indeed world class. People will realize that the Iglesia Ni Cristo is indeed a global church. It can be found now in 147 countries and territories around the world. All praise and glory to our loving Father. This project of the Administration will all the more boost the morale of the brethren to showcase their talents.”

The EVM Awards International was created to recognize the cinematic work of Iglesia Ni Cristo members when it comes to producing short films. It is the culmination of INCinema short films competitions held annually throughout the world. INCinema is a project envisioned by Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, that aims to promote Christian values through visual media and to hone talents in the performing arts, such as acting, directing and script writing.

Since the EVM Awards International inception in 2013, films from around their world have been submitted for consideration. Through a careful judging and selection process, these films have been nominated for awards in over twenty different categories like Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Lead Actor, and Best Lead Actress.

This year’s EVM Awards International showcases more than 70 entries from the Philippines and 35 INCinema short films from various ecclesiastical districts of the Church outside the Philippines, including the short film feature of Southwest California titled “It’s Not A Date”. All film entries focus on the INCinema theme of “I Am Proud To Be A Member Of The Church Of Christ”.

(Eagle News Service)