Category: Best Inspirational Film – 2025 WSXA Paris

(WINNER)

Original Film Title: Mr.Bai

Director’s Name: Hai Liang

Writer’s Name: Hai Liang

Producer: Kun Zhou, Bo Han

Country of Origin: China

Country of Filming : China

Language: Chinese

Runtime: 22 minutes 13 seconds

Film Description:

In the 1960s, responding to the government’s call, tens of millions of urban youths, driven by idealism, went to remote rural areas to participate in development efforts. They were known as “educated youth.” The Bai siblings were both among them. The elder brother abandoned his rural family to return to Shanghai, while the younger sister gave up her urban identity in Shanghai to care for her family in the countryside.

Now, both are old. The brother, nearing 80, faces illness and loneliness. He tricks his sister into returning to Shanghai, stirring up her nostalgia for the city, hoping she will stay and care for him. However, the sister has her own plans. The siblings’ tug-of-war over residency rights and property ultimately ends in discord.

In the end, they realize they lack the ability to alter the course of their lives and can only watch as their existence slowly dissolves along the trajectory already set.

(HONORABLE MENTION)

Original Film Title: Lotus

Director’s Name: Bryce Mackie, Brennan Collins

Writer’s Name: Bryce Mackie, Brennan Collins

Producer: Tom Mackie

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming : United States

Language: English

Runtime: 14 minutes 54 seconds

Film Description:

Be kind to yourself.

(FINALIST)

Original Film Title: LOOK UP—The Science of Cultural Evolutiond

Director’s Name: Nini Caroline Skarpaas Myhrvold, Espen Jan Folmo

Writer’s Name: Nini Caroline Skarpaas Myhrvold, Espen Jan Folmo

Producer: Nini Caroline Skarpaas Myhrvold, Espen Jan Folmo

Country of Origin: Norway

Country of Filming : Norway

Language: English

Runtime: 2 hours 50 minutes 47 seconds

Film Description:

Embark on a captivating journey where academic science meets cultural wisdom. “LOOK UP—The Science of Cultural Evolution” is a groundbreaking animated film that breathes life into a comprehensive scientific manuscript. This two-hour and fifty-minute feature is a new genre, blending the intricacies of psychotherapy research with the timeless sagacity of ancient and modern wisdom.

Dive into an exploration of how cultural evolution mirrors biological evolution, highlighting emergent phenomena that define both our scientific endeavors and our collective consciousness. The film delves into the profound impact of psychotherapy on personal and societal transformation, advocating for the integration of relational science into everyday practices.

Guided by a compelling narrative, “LOOK UP” takes viewers on a Viking raid through the realms of psychotherapy, uncovering the unique specialties that contribute to human development and interconnectedness. It emphasizes the ancient practice of healing through unconscious cultural agreements, manifesting in the form of placebo effects and shared human experiences.

Join us for an enlightening experience that invites you to embrace the ancient healer within, fostering personal growth and societal change. This film is not just a viewing experience but an invitation to practice and integrate the profound insights it offers.

Original Film Title: Goddess Bunny Superstar

Director’s Name: Matthew Kuhara Patrick

Writer’s Name: Matthew Kuhara Patrick

Producer: Matthew Kuhara Patrick

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming: United States

Language: English

Runtime: 1 hour 33 minutes

Film Description:

“Sandie Crisp, a transgender actress and model, served as a muse to generations of artists, gay punks, and the West Hollywood avant-garde.” THE NEW YORK TIMES

Goddess Bunny Superstar is a raw, powerful, up-lifting movie that was filmed for over 30 years by Matthew Patrick, Academy Award Nominated director for movie “Graffiti.”

“Contracting polio limited her mobility, and medical interventions worsened her condition. Her aesthetic, which blended the Hollywood noir of David Lynch with the punk offensiveness of GG Allin and Lydia Lunch, knew few boundaries.” THE NEW YORK TIMES

It’s a heartwarming love story, for despite immense hardships, Sandie embodied optimism and kindness, Her crude, yet charming, spirit always attracted friends who loved and surrounded her.

Sandie left an indelible mark on the LA Underground art scene, through performances, films, rock videos, photo shoots, and fashion. She starred in Marilyn Manson’s Dope Show video and performed on stage at the VMA awards.

There is always a strong visceral reaction when you first see Sandie. Our reptilian brains make a lightening fast judgement. Then our emotions and thoughts wash in. Sandie is a kind of mirror. You can’t help but compare yourself to her.

She’s a lovely soul, who’s upbeat and fun. Sandie carries herself happily without bitterness or shame. You have never ever met anyone quite like her, guaranteed.

Whenever I’d visit Sandie, it was a big reality check. My problems suddenly became small next to hers and she reminded me to have gratitude.

This film was shot in a cinema verite style, in search of the most poignant and truthful moments, regardless of camera technique.

Giovanni Baima, aka Sandie Crisp, aka Goddess Bunny, was born intersex.