2010 Valletta Film Awards...

This past Saturday the Africa Mercy's International Lounge played host to the third annual film festival, the 2010 edition of the Valletta Awards (named after the AFM's port of registry in Malta). Crew are encouraged to make and submit short films (not more than five minutes in length) that are then judged on several counts, including Best Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress, and the grand prize, Best Film. There were at least a dozen films that were entered into the festival. The Valletta Awards are the ship's equivalent of the Academy Awards, so crew are encouraged to wear their best attire.

After the screening in the International Lounge, the judges adjourned to come to consensus on the winners in the various categories, and then the award ceremony was held in the Town Square area of the ship. The Best Film was deservedly Micah Holden and Hannah Van Leeuwen's glimpse into the funnier aspects of ship life, simply entitled Hope and Healing. Thanks must go to the Hospitality Department for organising the event. For the 2008 event, click here.

Here are some more photos from this fun festival on the ship social calendar.

Jens receives his award for being the best supporting actor.

Micah and Hannah receive the Best Film award.

Some of my close friends made AFM Glee, which was a big hit.

The cabin 4330 boys - Jesse, Ben and me.

All of the winners get together for a group shot.