The Palm Springs International Film Society announced Thursday the creation of two awards recognizing the legacy of former festival chairman Harold Matzner, who is credited with revitalizing the event into an awards-seasons giant.
“The Film Society is honored to partner with the Ebbets Field Foundation in creating these two awards in Harold Matzner’s name,” Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi said in a statement. “Together, they capture the full breadth of Harold’s passion, celebrating both the masters who have shaped the entertainment industry and the emerging storytellers poised to shape its future.”
The Harold Matzner Impact Award was created to support emerging filmmakers wanting to explore significant social issues, including human rights, immigration, gender equity, Indigenous communities and food insecurity. Filmmakers must in the post-production stage to be eligible for the award, and grant funds may be used for color correction, sound design and mix, original score and marketing among other factors. The recipient will receive $25,000 in cash, transportation to attend the Harold Matzner Impact Award ceremony on Oct. 19, recognition during the Palm Springs Film Awards on Jan. 7 and priority programming consideration for the completed film at either the annual film festival or at ShortFest, officials said.
Funding for the award was provided by Matzner’s Ebbets Field Foundation.
The Harold Matzner Distinguished Achievement Award will recognize artistic individuals whose career has had an impact on the entertainment industry and society at-large.
Requirements for the Impact Award can be found at filmfreeway.com/HaroldMatznerImpactAward.