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Exploring the 2024 Humanitas Prize nominations: Celebrating the art of storytelling
The Humanitas Prize has long been a beacon of recognition for writers who delve into the complexities of the human condition. As we approach the 50th anniversary of this prestigious award, the 2024 nominations have been announced, showcasing a diverse array of talent across TV, film, and documentary fields. This year’s nominees include some of the most compelling and thought-provoking works in recent memory, with a lineup that promises to entertain, uplift, and provoke meaningful reflection.
The essence of storytelling: A look at the drama teleplay nominees
The drama teleplay category is particularly strong this year, featuring nominees that have captivated audiences with their intricate narratives and profound character development.
- “Black Cake” (“Nine Night”) by Marissa Jo Cerar explores themes of family, identity, and legacy. Watch the trailer.
- “The Crown” (“Ritz”) by Meriel Sheibani-Clare and Peter Morgan continues to delve into the complexities of the British monarchy. Watch the trailer.
- “The Morning Show” (“White Noise”) by Joshua Allen tackles the tumultuous world of morning television and the personal lives of its hosts. Watch the trailer.
- “Station 19” (“With So Little to Be Sure Of”) by Rochelle Zimmerman offers a gripping look at the lives of firefighters. Watch the trailer.
These nominees exemplify the power of drama to explore the depths of human emotion and societal issues.
Laughter and levity: Celebrating the comedy teleplay nominees
Comedy has a unique ability to address serious topics with a light touch, and this year’s nominees are no exception.
- “Act Your Age” (“Snip Snip”) by Myles Warden and Capri Sampson brings humor to the trials of aging. Watch the trailer.
- “Girls5eva” (“Bomont”) by Meredith Scardino and Janine Brito follows a one-hit-wonder girl group as they attempt a comeback. Watch the trailer.
- “Hacks” (“Yes, And”) by Samantha Riley, Lucia Aniello, Jen Statsky, and Paul W. Downs explores the dynamic between a legendary comedian and her young writer. Watch the trailer.
- “The Simpsons” (“Night of the Living Wage”) by Cesar Mazariegos continues to deliver sharp social commentary through its beloved animated characters. Watch the trailer.
These shows remind us that laughter can be a powerful tool for reflection and change.
Limited series teleplay: A deep dive into complex narratives
The limited series category features some of the most ambitious storytelling in television today.
- “All the Light We Cannot See” (“Episode 1”) by Steven Knight brings a beloved novel to life with stunning visuals and emotional depth. Watch the trailer.
- “Fellow Travelers” (“Your Nuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) by Anya Leta explores the intersection of politics and personal lives. Watch the trailer.
- “The Sympathizer” (“Endings Are Hard, Aren’t They?”) by Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar offers a gripping tale of espionage and identity. Watch the trailer.
- “We Were the Lucky Ones” (“Rio”) by Erica Lipez tells a harrowing story of survival and resilience. Watch the trailer.
These series push the boundaries of traditional storytelling, offering viewers a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions.
Children’s teleplay: Nurturing young minds through storytelling
The children’s teleplay category highlights the importance of storytelling in shaping young minds.
- “Heartstopper” (“Perfect”) by Alice Oseman is a heartwarming tale of young love and self-discovery. Watch the trailer.
- “Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur” (“Ride or Die”) by Halima Lucas brings superhero adventures to a new generation. Watch the trailer.
- “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin” by Robb Armstrong, Craig Schulz, Bryan Schulz, and Cornelius Uliano celebrates friendship and acceptance. Watch the trailer.
- “What If…?” (“What If… Hela Found the Ten Rings?”) by Matthew Chauncey offers imaginative scenarios that challenge young viewers to think creatively. Watch the trailer.
These nominees demonstrate the power of storytelling to inspire and educate the next generation.
Drama feature film: Capturing the human experience on the big screen
The drama feature film category showcases films that offer profound insights into the human experience.
- “All of Us Strangers” by Andrew Haigh explores themes of connection and isolation. Watch the trailer.
- “Origin” by Ava DuVernay delves into the roots of systemic racism. Watch the trailer.
- “Society of the Snow” by J.A. Bayona, Bernat Vilaplana, Jaime Marques-Olarreaga, and Nicolás Casariego tells a gripping survival story. Watch the trailer.
- “Suncoast” by Laura Chinn offers a poignant look at family dynamics. Watch the trailer.
These films remind us of the power of cinema to reflect and shape our understanding of the world.
Comedy feature film: Finding humor in life’s complexities
The comedy feature film category highlights films that use humor to explore complex themes.
- “American Fiction” by Cord Jefferson offers a satirical look at the publishing industry. Watch the trailer.
- “Flora and Son” by John Carney tells a heartwarming story of music and family. Watch the trailer.
- “The Holdovers” by David Hemingson explores the unlikely bond between a teacher and his students. Watch the trailer.
- “Jules” by Gavin Steckler offers a quirky tale of an alien encounter. Watch the trailer.
These films use humor to offer fresh perspectives on life’s challenges and joys.
Documentary: Unveiling the truth through storytelling
The documentary category features works that uncover hidden truths and offer new insights.
- “The Cowboy and the Queen” by Andrea Nevins and Graham Clark explores an unlikely friendship. Watch the trailer.
- “El Equipo: The Story of the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team” by Bernardo Ruiz and Fabian Caballero tells a powerful story of justice and human rights. Watch the trailer.
- “Sexual Healing” by Elsbeth Fraanje offers a candid look at the journey to sexual recovery. Watch the trailer.
These documentaries remind us of the power of storytelling to reveal and heal.
Family feature film: Stories that bring families together
The family feature film category highlights films that offer something for viewers of all ages.
- “Elemental” by John Hoberg, Kat Likkel, and Brenda Hsueh explores the elements of nature and family. Watch the trailer.
- “Frybread Face and Me” by Billy Luther tells a coming-of-age story with cultural significance. Watch the trailer.
- “A Million Miles Away” by Bettina Gilois, Hernán Jiménez, and Alejandra Márquez Abella offers an inspiring tale of perseverance. Watch the trailer.
- “Nimona” by Robert L. Baird and Lloyd Taylor brings a beloved graphic novel to life. Watch the trailer.
These films offer heartwarming stories that families can enjoy together.
Short film: Powerful stories in a compact format
The short film category showcases the ability to tell powerful stories in a brief format.
- “Astonishing Little Feet” by Maegan Houang offers a unique perspective on childhood. Watch the trailer.
- “The Ballad of Tita and the Machines” by Luis Antonio Aldana and Miguel Angel Caballero tells a poignant story of resilience. Watch the trailer.
- “Jelly” by Anndi Jinelle Liggett explores themes of identity and belonging. Watch the trailer.
- “The Rebel Girls” by Felicia D Henderson offers a powerful message of empowerment. Watch the trailer.
These short films demonstrate that impactful storytelling can come in small packages.
Reflecting on the power of storytelling
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Humanitas Prize, it is clear that storytelling remains a vital tool for exploring the human condition. This year’s nominees offer a rich tapestry of narratives that entertain, uplift, and provoke meaningful reflection. Whether through drama, comedy, or documentary, these works remind us of the power of storytelling to connect us to our shared humanity.
