Claude Jutra Award

The Claude Jutra Award recognizes outstanding achievement by a first-time feature filmmaker. Established in honour of renowned Quebec director Claude Jutra, this special award is chosen by the Genie Nominating committee, a group comprised of Academy members, filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals from across Canada.

JEPHTÉ BASTIEN - Sortie 67

Saint Michel district, Montréal. Ronald, an eight year-old bi-racial boy, sees his life turned upside down after witnessing the brutal murder of his mother by his father. Moved from one foster home to the next, Ronald is recruited by another family, a street gang, led by the notorious Brooklyn, where he dwells in a life of crime and violence. As he waits patiently for his father to be released from jail to avenge his mother, Ronald realizes that he has choices. He doesn't have to follow his father's footsteps nor the path chosen for him. Against all odds, he decides to take control of his destiny. His awakening to new humane values pushes him to change course despite the unequivocal risk of losing the only family he's ever known.

Honourable mention / Mention d’honneur - PETER STEBBINGS - Defendor