‘Thelma,’ ‘Sugarcane,’ And ‘Alok’ Win Top Prizes At The 2024 Sarasota Film Festival

Narrative Feature Jury Prize: "Thelma" by Josh Margolin

Documentary Feature Jury Prize: "Sugarcane"

Local Audience Award: "Into the Spotlight: The Jake Ilardi Story"

Industry Audience Award: "Luther: Never Too Much" by Dawn Porter

Rising Star Award: Austin Abrams for his role in "The Line"

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Remarks:

Josh Margolin is a filmmaker and screenwriter known for his work in the independent film industry. He has recently achieved success with his film "Thelma," which won the Narrative Feature Jury Prize at the 2024 Sarasota Film Festival.

Margolin was born in 1980 in New York City and grew up in a family of filmmakers.

He began his career in the industry working as a production assistant and editor on various independent films before making his directorial debut in 2005 with the short film "The Last Time."

Since then, Margolin has written and directed several feature films, including "The Listener" and "The Line," which have premiered at various film festivals and received critical acclaim.

His work often explores themes of identity, relationships, and social justice.

In addition to his work in film, Margolin has also taught screenwriting at several universities and film schools. He is known for his dedication to mentoring and supporting emerging filmmakers and has been recognized for his contributions to the industry with several awards and nominations.

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Following a gala closing night celebration featuring Steve Buscemi and his film "The Listener," the 2024 Sarasota Film Festival has announced its awards — with several prominent indies taking the top prizes. This 26th edition of the Florida festival celebrating independent film gave the Narrative Feature Jury Prize to Josh Margolin's Sundance breakout "Thelma," starring June Squibb and the late Richard Roundtree . "Sugarcane" won the Documentary Feature Jury Prize.