At the 24th International Festival of Films on Art (FIFA) in Montreal, which ended on March 19, 2006, the film documentary Building the Gherkin directed by Mirjam von Arx (produced by Condor Communications AG/ ican films gmbh) was awarded the Prize for Best Reportage. Filmmaker von Arx was present in Montreal to accept the award in person.
The only cinematic event of its kind in North America, FIFA is the largest and most renowned festival of films on art in the world. Extending over 10 days, FIFA presented over 280 films from some 30 countries representing all artistic disciplines, including dance, music, painting, architecture, literature and film.
In the competition section Creative Crossroads 41 films were presented from 16 countries. The five-member jury was chaired by producer, director and screenwriter Paul Smaczny.
The documentary, Building the Gherkin, follows the planning and construction of the iconic London tower designed by British architect Norman Foster in London. The film was well received by audiences in Montreal, and an additional screening was scheduled to meet the demand.
After a successful cinema run in Switzerland, Building the Gherkin will be released in May in the German cinemas and will have its UK premiere on June 21 at the Barbican in London. The screening is running in conjuction with the London Architecture Biennale.
