LIAF 2024 Unveils Diverse Panel of Judges for Prestigious Animation Competitions in the UK
The London International Animation Festival (LIAF) 2024 has announced its panel of judges, featuring leading figures from the animation and filmmaking world. The festival, renowned for celebrating innovation and excellence in animation, has curated a diverse jury to evaluate its various competitions, including the International Competition Programme, British Showcase, and Children's Competition.
International Competition and British Showcase Judges
Alex Dudok de Wit, a prominent animation critic and programmer, is a key figure on this year's panel. With over a decade of experience, Dudok de Wit has written for acclaimed publications like Sight & Sound and Little White Lies. His literary contributions include Grave of the Fireflies for BFI Film Classics and a New York Times bestselling translation of Hayao Miyazaki’s Shuna’s Journey.
Joining him is Mary Martins, a British-Nigerian animator whose socially engaged, mixed-media documentaries explore underrepresented voices. Martins’ projects span the UK, Brazil, and Nigeria, combining animation and experimental techniques to tell powerful stories.
Animation director Hannah Lau-Walker, with extensive experience at Nexus Studios, rounds out the panel. She is known for her work promoting diversity in the industry through initiatives like She Drew That. Her award-winning short, Yeah, I’m Good Thanks, has featured in 28 international festivals.
Abstract Showcase Competition Judges
The Abstract Showcase will be judged by experimental animation artist Jon Gillie and filmmaker Beth Walker. Gillie’s award-winning work, shown at venues like MoMA PS1 and Whitechapel Gallery, explores abstraction through digital and analogue media. Walker’s bold, process-led visuals have been recognized internationally, including at the Annecy International Animation Festival. Her ongoing PhD research investigates the transformative impact of projected visuals in natural settings.
Late Night Bizarre and Music Video Judges
Conor Kehelly, a Belfast-based multidisciplinary animator, will bring his unique perspective as a creator of darkly playful indie films, such as his award-winning The Final Nail in the Coffin. Joining him is Scottish filmmaker Paolo Chianta, known for his biro-drawn animations and original dramas for BBC Radio.
Children’s Competition Judge
The youngest judge, Lilith Silver, continues her 12-year tenure as the LIAF Children’s Competition judge at the age of 17. A seasoned voice in evaluating films for young audiences, Silver brings a passion for cinema with favorite films that include Whale Rider and Deliverance.
The judges' collective expertise highlights LIAF’s commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and maintaining high standards in animation excellence. The festival, set to take place in London, is expected to attract creators and audiences from around the globe.