PUMA.Creative Impact Award Winner Announced

Last night on a fine evening in London PUMA.Creative and the Channel 4 BRITDOC Foundation announced “The End of the Line” as the winner of the inaugural PUMA.Creative Impact Award. This annual €50,000 award, a first of its kind in the industry, has been launched to identify and honor the documentary film that have made the most significant positive impact on society. “Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed Country” was unexpectedly awarded a Special Commendation for its social impact and a €25,000 prize. 

Rupert Murray, Director of “The End of The Line” comments, “Documentary filmmakers are unique in that we want to change the world; we want to make things better, which is why it is fantastic to win the PUMA.Creative Impact Award. This is an award that truly understands and recognises our investment - I mean I nearly died in a fishing net in Peru, getting shots of some anchovies - to change behaviour for the greater good.”

The decision wasn’t easy, and we congratulate all five finalists. The Jury commented on “Burma VJ” and its impact, saying, “This film stood out for the intensity with which it captured the selfless courage of those who stand up to power. Its impact will be felt way beyond its immediate geographical and political context, to inspire and strengthen the resolve of everyone who fights for a fairer world, today and in the years to come.”

In an interview with the Huffington Post UK, Queen Noor stated:
“It wasn’t at all easy, we felt every film to the core. We went on and on until we had to stop, because we were so struck by the passion of each and every one of the filmmakers. So it came down the quality of the film-making and the impact as a tool for education, fundraising, political advocacy and whether the impact would be enduring. It was a fascinating experience looking at all these films.”

Read the full article here.