First Time at The 32nd Film Independent Spirit Awards Saturday, February 25, 2017

On a sunny Santa Monica Beach, the who’s who’s of the film world comes to celebrate the best in indie filmmaking and the “never give up” attitude that marks indie filmmakers.

A product of Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards, along with the LA Film Festival and Film Independent at LACMA. Always creative with finances the Awards are the primary fundraiser for Film Independent’s year-round programs, which cultivate the careers of emerging filmmakers and promote diversity in the industry.

Key word is “diversity” and that’s an issue that Film Independent President  Josh Welsh feel strongly about. This years’ list of nominees include, under Best Feature, American Honey, Chronic, Jackie, Manchester by the Sea, and Moonlight.

“Now more than ever, the voices of independent artists play a critically important role in our culture,” said Welsh. “The films we celebrate at this year’s Spirit Awards embody the diversity, innovation and uniqueness of vision that we champion all year long.”

The powerful film Moonlight was selected to receive the Robert Altman Award, which is bestowed upon one film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast. The Altman Award was created in 2008 in honor of legendary director Robert Altman who was known for creating extraordinary ensemble casts.

The winners, who were selected by Film Independent Members, will be announced at the Spirit Awards on Saturday, February 25, 2017.

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