Port of Ghent Public Choice Award: Short Term 12 (Destin Daniel Cretton)

What was the key to success? The fact that director Destin Daniel Cretton and his lead Brie Larson attended Film Fest Gent? Or maybe the well-considered choice to put American independent cinema in the spotlight? In any case, the audience was blown away by the indie gem 'Short Term 12' by Destin Daniel Cretton, giving it an average rating of 4.73 out of 5.

'Short Term 12' is the story of Grace (Brie Larsen), who cares for teenagers at a foster care facility, as seen through her eyes. Grace is a wonderful caregiver, passionate but also tough when necessary. She’s in a long-term relationship with her colleague Mason (John Gallagher Jr.), but her own difficult past – and the surprising future that suddenly knocks at her door – lead to great confusion. Even more so when a troubled young girl, whom Grace has a strong affinity for, turns up at the care facility. Screenwriter and director Destin Daniel Cretton based the story on his own experiences as a caregiver, and skillfully steers away from the clichés of films set in institutions. The film was a deserved winner at the SXSW Festival in Texas. This is American independent cinema as we love to see it: a short, character-driven story with a strong cast and particular attention to colour, camera work and sound.