Cannes 2009: Best Short Film goes to Joao Salaviza’s Arena

John Boorman John Boorman headed a jury that didn’t need much of a attention span as they presided over a selection of nine short films. the real work went to those who watch the 2,600 shorts submitted for a coveted nine final spots. A runner up prize goes to The Six Dollar Fifty Man (check the official website here) and Joao Salaviza wins the big prize for Arena. The drama tells the story of Mauro, who is under house arrest.
Tattooing helps him while away the time.
Three local kids taunt him through his window.
Outside, the midday sun beats down.

Mark Albiston & Louis Sutherland’s short play with the notion of Steve Austin. The synopsis: It’s hard to look after yourself in the playground when you’re different. Set in 1970s New Zealand, The Six Dollar Fifty Man follows Andy, a gutsy eight year-old boy who lives in a make believe superhero world where his imagination allows him to perform extraordinary physical feats, to deal with playground bullies. But when Andy gets in trouble with the headmaster, he realises that to save himself & his only friend Mary, he must face up to the real world.

There for our future coverage of both titles.