meet the jury
Barcelona Indie Awards
Our festival is honored to feature a diverse and accomplished panel of judges, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for storytelling to the table.
Oscar® Nominee
Ivan Goldschmidt
Ivan Goldschmidt is a celebrated Belgian filmmaker, producer, editor, and scriptwriter with a career spanning various creative realms, including theater and visual arts. He gained international recognition for his 2010 short film Na Wewe (You Too), a powerful depiction of ethnic conflict set during the 1994 Burundian Civil War. The film received critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and poignant satire, earning a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 83rd Academy Awards.
With a passion for exploring human identity and an affinity for dark humor, Goldschmidt has received numerous accolades throughout his career, distinguishing himself as a versatile talent across mediums. His work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide for its depth and humanity.
Award Winner at Berlinale 2024
Lucía G. Romero
Spanish director and screenwriter who gained international recognition for her work. She received a full scholarship to study at the Catalonia School of Film and Audiovisuals (ESCAC), specializing in directing.
Her graduation short film, “Cura Sana,” was presented at the Berlinale 2024 in the Generation 14plus section, where it won the Crystal Bear for Best Short Film. The film, inspired by her Cuban roots, deals with themes of abuse and its psychological impacts.
Indie Short Film
Melissa De Cima
For over twelve years, I´ve been dedicated to the audiovisual world, working in television, advertising, and documentaries, specializing in scriptwriting, assistant directing, and production. I have directed commercials, music videos, and branded content. I have worked with companies like Disney, Fox, Televisa, and as an independent filmmaker. Currently, I focus on directing and screenwriting.
Award-winning director at Cannes
Tino De La Huerta
Award-winning director at Cannes in 2013, Tino De La Huerta, was born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, in 1983. Known for his unique cinematic vision and captivating storytelling, Tino has earned acclaim for his mastery in both visual and narrative realms. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with major global brands such as Nike, Coca-Cola, Red Bull, GMC, Amnesty International, Chelsea FC, La Liga, and Google, among others.
Tino studied Economics at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, and later pursued Media Studies at The New School in New York. During his time in New York, he also worked at VICE Media, strengthening his experience in digital media. Additionally, he was the founder of the production company KIDS in Mexico, which he managed until its sale. He is currently based in Madrid, Spain, where he continues to develop his career as a director in film and advertising.
Award-winning director at Cannes
Nick Ray Rutter
Nick Rutter’s award-winning films have screened at Cannes Film Festival and appeared on Netflix, Channel 4, and the BBC. He holds an MA from Goldsmiths College and studied at Panic Film School and Brighton Film School.
Nick’s break into directing came through documentaries on Madness, The Clash, and The Sex Pistols. His commercial work for brands like Tanqueray, Google, Tesco, and Heineken earned him gold at the Epica Awards and bronze at Cannes Lions.
His short The World Turns won a Fuji Short Film Award and was praised by Oscar-winning producer Gareth Unwin for its strong narrative and aesthetic. Nick also collaborated on the double Emmy-nominated Monty Python: Almost The Truth, which screened in cinemas before airing on BBC2 and Netflix.
As the founder of Lamplight Stories, Nick continues to develop long-form narratives alongside experimental short films.
Short Film
António Aleixo
Two times nominated (2019 and 2023) and Awarded by the Portuguese Film Academy with a Sophia Award for best short documentary (2019) amongst other international awards before and after, I’m a storyteller at heart with a sharp eye for rhythm and emotions. I live to inspire others and take pride in realising that, from film to film, I become better at what I do.
Animation Film
Joe Murray
I started with independent animated films, editorial illustrations, and children’s books. Took a fruitful experience side road to create a few animated series, and now back thankfully to my true love of animating. I now reside in Belgium with my wife and two boys.
My indie films (and Netflix special) have been shown at Sundance, Annecy, Ottawa, Hiroshima an many other festivals. Oh, and I won a Student Academy Award for my first film “The Chore”. I guess that’s worth mentioning.
I make films simply because it is the only reaction I can have.
Feature Film
Ian Sciacaluga
Ian Sciacaluga is a talented writer-director recognized for his work in television, commercials, and short dramas. He was nominated for Best British Short Film at the Raindance Film Festival for his noir short Imbroglio. With a diverse background, Ian has produced and directed projects across the globe, showcasing his expertise in travel, arts, history, and architecture through factual television formats. Additionally, he has directed commercials for major brands like Cadbury, Dove, and Kellogg’s, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and accomplished filmmaker.
