Second annual Hollywood Brazilian Film Festival announces winners at closing night celebration

Cast and crew of short film “As Maltratadas” with HBRFEST founder and executive producer
Talize Sayegh (third from left) during the festival opening night. (Photo: Antonio Passos, Jr.)

Presented by G.I. Films and the Consulate General of Brazil in Los Angeles, the second edition of the Hollywood Brazilian Film Festival (HBR FEST) concluded on Sunday, February 7th with its award ceremony and closing night celebration that took place at the legendary Egyptian Theatre in the heart of Hollywood.

Festival co-founder and executive producer Talize Sayegh led the award ceremony presentation. Winners were announced in the following categories:

Best Actress Maria Clara Spinelli
(Photo: Antonio Passos, Jr.)

“Paulista” tells the story of three young people in search of love in the midst of the frantic pace of São Paulo. The movie shows what a relationship can uncover of an unspoken past, and how much can people dare to hope for a happy future.

“Hotel Atlantico” follows a solitary man as he sets of on a journey to the south of Brazil. During his trip he encounters strange characters and absurd situations presenting an extraordinary portrait of human relations.

Director Ana Campina (center) holds the Best Short Film award for
"As Maltratadas". (Photo: Antonio Passos, Jr.)

The 2010 HBR FEST RAW Award was also announced and this year’s recipient is Ludy Mattos for the short film “The Orange”. The HBR FEST RAW is a student film competition and the winner receives a one-year scholarship to the New York Film Academy.

Following the award ceremony, filmmakers, celebrities and guests enjoyed a special screening of “Veronica” directed by Mauricio Farias. The film stars Andrea Beltrão, Marco Ricca, Matheus de Sá and Giulio Lopes.

During the closing night celebration, attendees were treated to delicious Brazilian cuisine from Fogo de Chão Churrascaria, a selection of wines from Pacifico Sur Tutunjian Estate Vineyards, tequila tasting from Asombroso, among others.