TikTok Announces Winner of Inaugural Real Short Award

TikTok, the leading global platform for short-form mobile videos, has announced the winner of the inaugural "TikTok Real Short Award" in partnership with Film Independent. The recipient of the award is visionary filmmaker Ann Lupo, who will receive a $10,000 grant to support her creativity and passion for storytelling through video.

TikTok, as a Platinum Sponsor of this year's LA Film Festival, has become a worldwide hub for content creation, showcasing the power of short-form video as a medium for storytelling and creativity across cultures. The partnership with Film Independent and the creation of the "TikTok Real Short Award" allowed Festival filmmakers to utilize the mobile platform to create meaningful works of art. Filmmakers were encouraged to capture a moment showcasing their passion for filmmaking and captivating fans through their storytelling.

Ann Lupo, from Brooklyn, New York, was selected by a judging panel led by the LA Film Festival's programming team. Her submission stood out for its exceptional storytelling through the lens of TikTok, utilizing creator tools to enhance the narrative. Her innovative short film won her the $10,000 grant.

Ann Lupo is the director and star of the feature film "In Reality," which is competing in the LA Film Festival's US Fiction competition.

The submissions for the "TikTok Real Short Award," including the winning short film, can be viewed on the FilmIndependent TikTok account.

Stefan Heinrich, Head of Global Marketing at TikTok, expressed the company's commitment to self-expression through mobile, vertical video. He highlighted the unique and creative submissions received, showcasing the potential of the short-form video medium. TikTok is excited to continue its partnership with Film Independent and push the boundaries of storytelling through traditional filmmaking and new video media.

In addition, TikTok is proud to be a Lead Sponsor of Film Independent Project Involve in 2019. This program supports filmmakers from underrepresented communities in film and entertainment through a nine-month mentorship program. Rising filmmakers will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with TikTok creators to enhance their understanding of filmmaking techniques. Films created from Project Involve will debut at the 2019 LA Film Festival.

TikTok is a destination for short-form mobile videos, allowing everyone to be a creator and share their passion and creative expression. The company is based in Los Angeles and has global offices in various cities. Film Independent is a nonprofit arts organization that champions creative independence in visual storytelling and supports a diverse community of artists. They help filmmakers make their movies, build an audience for their projects, and work towards diversifying the film industry. Film Independent produces the Spirit Awards and the LA Film Festival, as well as year-round programs that offer unique cinematic experiences for the creative community and the general public.