FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASENovember 11, 2024
Life in My Eyes Wins "Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking" at 30th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival
Chicago, IL — Emerging filmmaker Marshall R. Gibson’s documentary Life in My Eyes has been awarded the prestigious Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking at the 30th annual Black Harvest Film Festival. The film premiered on November 11th as part of 'Shorts from the Block,' a special collection of short films highlighting new voices and perspectives in Black cinema.
Life in My Eyes offers a heartfelt exploration of the lives of individuals with visual impairments, examining their resilience and unique experiences as they navigate a world primarily designed for those with sight. By capturing personal stories of triumph, adaptation, and the challenges these individuals face, Gibson’s documentary sheds light on the strength, adaptability, and unique perspectives of the visually impaired community. The film seeks to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging audiences to consider the daily experiences of those with visual impairments from a new perspective.
This award marks a significant achievement for Gibson, who recently graduated with his Master of Fine Arts in Independent Filmmaking and Digital Imaging from Governors State University. His work demonstrates a passion for social awareness and inclusive storytelling, celebrating diverse human experiences and breaking down societal stereotypes.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking,” Gibson shares. “This award is not only a testament to the hard work and dedication poured into Life in My Eyes, but also a celebration of the incredible individuals who shared their stories with me. I’m grateful for this platform to bring awareness and start important conversations about the experiences of visually impaired individuals.”
The Black Harvest Film Festival, held at Chicago’s iconic Gene Siskel Film Center, has been a vital platform for Black filmmakers for three decades, showcasing films that address a broad spectrum of Black life, culture, and identity. The Sergio Mims Prize, named in honor of the late Black Harvest co-founder and renowned film critic, is awarded to exceptional filmmakers whose work amplifies underrepresented voices and elevates the art of storytelling in Black cinema. Screening Details: Dates: November 15th at 8:30 PM Location: Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N State St, Chicago, IL. 60601 Tickets: Available at Black Harvest Film Festival For more information about Life in My Eyes or to schedule an interview with Marshall R. Gibson, please contact: Media Contact:Marshall Gibson Marshall@L8bloomers.org312-536-7684
Life in My Eyes offers a heartfelt exploration of the lives of individuals with visual impairments, examining their resilience and unique experiences as they navigate a world primarily designed for those with sight. By capturing personal stories of triumph, adaptation, and the challenges these individuals face, Gibson’s documentary sheds light on the strength, adaptability, and unique perspectives of the visually impaired community. The film seeks to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging audiences to consider the daily experiences of those with visual impairments from a new perspective.
This award marks a significant achievement for Gibson, who recently graduated with his Master of Fine Arts in Independent Filmmaking and Digital Imaging from Governors State University. His work demonstrates a passion for social awareness and inclusive storytelling, celebrating diverse human experiences and breaking down societal stereotypes.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Sergio Mims Prize for Excellence in Black Filmmaking,” Gibson shares. “This award is not only a testament to the hard work and dedication poured into Life in My Eyes, but also a celebration of the incredible individuals who shared their stories with me. I’m grateful for this platform to bring awareness and start important conversations about the experiences of visually impaired individuals.”
The Black Harvest Film Festival, held at Chicago’s iconic Gene Siskel Film Center, has been a vital platform for Black filmmakers for three decades, showcasing films that address a broad spectrum of Black life, culture, and identity. The Sergio Mims Prize, named in honor of the late Black Harvest co-founder and renowned film critic, is awarded to exceptional filmmakers whose work amplifies underrepresented voices and elevates the art of storytelling in Black cinema. Screening Details: Dates: November 15th at 8:30 PM Location: Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N State St, Chicago, IL. 60601 Tickets: Available at Black Harvest Film Festival For more information about Life in My Eyes or to schedule an interview with Marshall R. Gibson, please contact: Media Contact:Marshall Gibson Marshall@L8bloomers.org312-536-7684
About Marshall R. Gibson
Marshall R. Gibson is a recent graduate of Governors State University, where he earned his MFA in Independent Filmmaking and Digital Imaging. He also holds a BA in Communications, Media Arts, and Theater from Chicago State University. Life in My Eyes is his debut film, a project inspired by his passion for social justice and underrepresented narratives. Gibson's work focuses on using film as a tool for change, empathy, and awareness. Follow the L8Bloomers website for the latest updates.
About the Black Harvest Film Festival
The Black Harvest Film Festival is Chicago's longest-running festival showcasing films that explore and celebrate the black experience. Held annually at the Gene Siskel Film Center, the festival brings together films from all over the world, featuring documentaries, short films, and narrative features that address the richness and complexity of black life.