Cineglobe Film Festival Audience Award For Best Documentary 2017: Facts, Secrets, And Insights You Missed

The Cineglobe Film Festival, held annually at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) in Geneva, Switzerland, is a unique event bridging science, technology, and cinema. In 2017, its Audience Award for Best Documentary was a hotly contested prize, shining a spotlight on the power of documentary filmmaking to explore complex scientific and social issues. This article delves into the specifics of the award, the winning film, and the festival's overall impact.

What is Cineglobe?

Cineglobe is a film festival dedicated to exploring the intersection of science and cinema. Founded in 2010, it aims to foster dialogue and understanding between scientists, filmmakers, and the public. The festival features a diverse selection of films, ranging from narrative features to documentaries and experimental shorts, all with a common thread: exploring scientific themes or using innovative technology in their production.

Who are the Key Players?

CERN, the world's largest particle physics laboratory, serves as the host organization for Cineglobe. The festival's team comprises filmmakers, scientists, educators, and communication specialists. The audience, composed of CERN employees, local residents, and international visitors, plays a crucial role in selecting the Audience Award winner.

When and Where Did This Happen?

The Cineglobe Film Festival takes place annually in Geneva, Switzerland, typically in March. The 2017 edition, where the documentary award was presented, was held from March 14th to March 18th. Screenings and events were hosted at CERN and other venues in the Geneva area.

Why is This Award Significant?

The Audience Award at Cineglobe holds particular significance because it directly reflects the viewers' response to the films. Unlike jury awards, which are decided by a panel of experts, the Audience Award empowers the public to choose the film that resonated with them the most. This makes it a valuable indicator of a film's accessibility, impact, and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

The 2017 Winner: "Almost Nothing: CERN, a Great Adventure"

The Audience Award for Best Documentary in 2017 went to "Almost Nothing: CERN, a Great Adventure" ( *Presque Rien! CERN, une Grande Aventure*). Directed by Nicolas Frey, the film offered an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and the work of the scientists at CERN.

What is "Almost Nothing" About?

The documentary explores the motivations and daily lives of the physicists, engineers, and technicians who dedicate their careers to unraveling the mysteries of the universe. It delves into the complexities of the LHC, the world's largest and most powerful particle accelerator, and highlights the human aspect of scientific discovery. The film doesn't shy away from the challenges and uncertainties inherent in pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.

Why Did "Almost Nothing" Win?

Several factors likely contributed to "Almost Nothing" winning the Audience Award. Firstly, the film provided unprecedented access to CERN, an institution often perceived as shrouded in mystery. Secondly, it humanized the scientists working at CERN, portraying them not just as brilliant minds but also as individuals with passions, doubts, and a shared commitment to understanding the universe. Finally, the film effectively communicated complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging manner, making it appealing to a broad audience.

Secrets and Insights You Might Have Missed:

  • The Human Element: While many documentaries about CERN focus on the scientific breakthroughs, "Almost Nothing" emphasized the human stories behind the science. It showcased the collaborative nature of research, the long hours, and the personal sacrifices made by the scientists.

  • The Emotional Rollercoaster: The film captured the emotional ups and downs of scientific research, from the excitement of discovery to the frustration of setbacks. This portrayal resonated with audiences who may have previously perceived science as a purely objective and rational pursuit.

  • Funding and the Future: The documentary subtly touched upon the challenges of securing funding for fundamental research. It hinted at the pressures faced by scientists to justify their work to taxpayers and policymakers, a reality that often goes unacknowledged in popular depictions of science.

    • Historical Context:

    The Cineglobe Film Festival emerged during a period of increasing public interest in science and technology. The early 21st century saw a surge in documentaries and films exploring scientific themes, reflecting a desire to understand the world around us and the impact of science on society. CERN, as a leading center for scientific research, recognized the potential of cinema to communicate its work to a wider audience, leading to the creation of Cineglobe.

    Current Developments:

    Cineglobe continues to thrive, attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world. The festival has expanded its scope to include workshops, panel discussions, and interactive installations, further enhancing its role as a platform for dialogue between science and cinema. The festival actively promotes science communication and encourages filmmakers to explore scientific themes in innovative and engaging ways.

    Likely Next Steps:

    Looking ahead, Cineglobe is likely to continue its efforts to:

  • Expand its reach: The festival aims to attract a wider audience, both within and beyond the CERN community.

  • Promote diversity: Cineglobe strives to showcase films from diverse perspectives and backgrounds, reflecting the global nature of scientific research.

  • Foster collaboration: The festival seeks to strengthen its partnerships with other organizations in the science and film industries, creating new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

  • Invest in emerging talent: Cineglobe is committed to supporting emerging filmmakers who are exploring scientific themes in their work.

Conclusion:

The Cineglobe Film Festival's Audience Award for Best Documentary in 2017, awarded to "Almost Nothing: CERN, a Great Adventure," highlights the power of documentary filmmaking to bridge the gap between science and the public. By providing unprecedented access to CERN and humanizing the scientists working there, the film resonated with audiences and offered a valuable insight into the world of particle physics. Cineglobe continues to play a vital role in promoting science communication and fostering dialogue between scientists, filmmakers, and the public. The festival’s future will likely see further expansion and a continued commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and supporting emerging talent in the field of science-themed filmmaking. The success of "Almost Nothing" serves as a reminder that compelling storytelling, combined with scientific accuracy, can captivate audiences and inspire a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science.