The most notable aspect of this event is in the title – it really was an international affair.  There were films from Turkey, Iran, Mexico, Brazil, Australia and Europe, but the two that resonated most with both the theater audience and at the Hyatt were ‘Tapestries of Hope’ a revelation about the victimization of Zimbabwean woman, and the ‘Stoning of Soraya M’, a harrowing tale about the inhuman sentences imposed by the doctrine of Sharia.  Trailers from both these films were screened at the awards ceremony and the seriousness of the content most definitely gave the audience pause for thought.  But the gloom of the moment was humorously dispelled by the chirpy Brit host, one Sandro Monetti, who subtly reminded those in attendance that this was a night to celebrate and honor the committed and talented women whose steely determination brought these injustices so resoundingly to our attention.

I, for one, am looking forward to next year’s line up of international films.