A decade ago, MVFF launched its Mind the Gap initiative. The aim was to achieve gender equity across all sectors of the film industry by breaking boundaries and challenging social norms through representation and insightful discussion rooted in the art and craft of filmmaking.
MVFF and Mind the Gap committed to having 50 percent of the festival’s films directed by women by 2020, and they exceeded that goal, with 57 percent of the festival’s features helmed by women that year. In the subsequent years, the initiative continued to reach, or nearly reach, that 50 percent goal.
This year, the festival is honoring two surging talents: Eva Victor, star, writer and director of A24 film Sorry, Baby, and actor Rose Byrne (If I Had Legs I’d Kick You). Both will be presented with the Mind the Gap Award for their artistry and impact on the industry.
Mind the Gap has become a cornerstone of MVFF, and the films and filmmakers it champions continue to pave the way for and empower the next generation of women in film.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated to reflect the change of Kristen Stewart as an award recipient to Rose Byrne.
