For Immediate Release
HOUSTON, TEXAS — Five films produced in Texas will compete for the prestigious Texas Independent Film Award (TIFA) during the 18th annual Houston Film Critics Society (HFCS) awards in January.
Named as nominees are:
• Deliveries from Eva: Lakisha R. Lemons explores a complex relationship between a forgotten music star and a delivery driver.
• The Ego Death of Queen Cecilia: Chris Beier follows a former YouTube star trying to find her place in an unfriendly world.
• Lost Soulz: Katherine Propper tracks a rapper’s journey into himself and his music.
• Runaway Radio: Mike McGuff revisits the magic created by Houston 101 KLOL.
• When Houston Had the Blues: Alan Swyer considers the impact of the city’s Black music scene.
“Each year, the TIFA nominees remind us the creative contributions Texas filmmakers continue to make,” says Cary Darling, HFCS member and film critic for the Houston Chronicle. “I am continually impressed, and thrilled, by the stunning work emerging from artists working in the state. This reconfirms our Texas state of mind always has a home at the movies.”
“We are extremely proud to honor the talent working on both sides of the camera in the state,” adds Joshua Starnes, HFCS member and long-time coordinator of the TIFA selection process. “As film critics in Texas, we are committed to use our work to spotlight what can be created in our hometowns. And this year’s nominees are among the best we have seen.”
To be considered for the TIFA, a documentary or narrative film must be of feature length, independently financed, primarily filmed in the Lone Star State and submitted to the Society by October 31. Members of a select HFCS committee screen the possible nominees before all voting members view the nominees and select the winner. Other HFCS nominees will be released January 7; all HFCS winners will be announced later in the month.
“The TIFA is our signature award where we look around the state to salute the work of the Texas film industry,” says Travis Leamons, President of the Society. “While our organization is proud to honor our favorites as a collective, the TIFA means the most, because it honors Texas movies and Lone Star cinema.”
The 38 members of the Houston Film Critics Society are working film journalists on television, radio, online and in traditional print. Together, they reach millions of people each week across the United States with their critiques and commentaries on film. The organization’s mission is to promote the advancement and appreciation of film in the Houston community and beyond. For a list of members, visit www.HoustonFilmCritics.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Travis Leamons, President
Houston Film Critics Society
thedvdlounge@yahoo.com