ANNUAL GALA
Creating Family
2023
An Unforgettable Las Vegas Experience:
Where Glamour Meets Emotion
PRESENTED BY
SPONSORED BY
LV HOST LIONS CLUB
Join us as we recount the spectacular two-day event that was the 2023 VMA Annual Gala, held at The Industrial in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada on September 29 and 30.
This extraordinary experience was filled with emotion, expert Q&A sessions, red-carpet glamour, interviews, laughter, and a meticulously curated venue and show, all designed to make this evening unforgettable for everyone involved.
"It was such a pleasure to participate in the Vegas Movie Awards. The communication was top-notch all along the way. The festival directors run their festival with care and heart. -And we were thrilled that our film "Hungry" was honored with Best Inspirational Film and I was honored with Best Actress in the 2019 VMA's! --And it was terrific meeting our fellow award-winners around the world at the fun and fabulous gala. Being a part of the Vegas Movie Awards was a wonderful and valuable experience. Thank you from all our team.”
Jillie Simon - "Hungry"
September 29th | Multiple Screenings and Q&A
DAY ONE
Recap
A Day of Cinematic Enchantment and Genuine Connections
Day One was filled with independent film magic, celebrating visionary filmmakers who breathe life into stories. Handpicked film screenings on four stages offered a glimpse into brilliant creators' minds, showcasing cinematic wonders born from simple ideas and unwavering determination.
Beyond films, Day 1 fostered genuine connections. Our relaxed atmosphere facilitated unique human bonds that AI can't replicate. Dreamers shared creativity, igniting inspiration, while networking opportunities deepened love for cinema. In addition to captivating films, we featured four inspirational talks with industry experts. These experts shared invaluable insights, enriching our understanding of the cinematic world.
Photo Gallery
VEGAS MOVIE ACADEMY™
INSPIRATIONAL TALKS
Our personal selection of speakers who shared their unique experiences in the film industry to inspire our filmmakers' challenging journey and make them proud of their tough choices.
NAVIGATING FILM'S FUTURE
A Talk And Q&A With DANETTE TULL
Production & Communications Manager at Nevada Film Office, a division of the Governor's Office of Economic Development
VIDEO COMING SOON
Join industry expert Danette as she unveils the secrets to thriving amidst evolving landscapes, and discover how Nevada's unique offerings can elevate your cinematic journey.
WRITE YOUR OWN TICKET
A Talk And Q&A With ZACH THOMSON
Award-winning Producer / Director / Book Author
Worked on productions such as AVATAR / INDEPENDENCE DAY / DUMB AND DUMBER
VIDEO COMING SOON
Don’t wait for opportunity to knock. The world wants your unique storytelling perspective on the human condition. Zach, with his incredible experience built on out-of-the-ordinary resilience and thinking big, will teach you how to remain persistent and achieve your dreams.
LOVE, CONNECT, AND THRIVE TOGETHER
Get inspired by experts McKenzie and Zach as they share the secrets of loving what you do, fostering deep connections, and collaborating with those who challenge you to be the best version of yourself. Discover the power of shared values in building exceptional teamwork.
A Talk And Q&A With
McKENZIE VAN DORNE-RICE and ZACH THOMSON
McKenzie is an award-winning film and television Producer who has been involved in the film industry for almost 20 years, President and Creative Director of Liquid Studios Entertainment Group-LSEG in Burbank, CA
VIDEO COMING SOON
FUELING FILMMAKING: POWER OF EMOTIONS
Explore the dynamic realm of filmmaking where the potency of emotions transforms storytelling. Join Simin and Claire in embracing vulnerability as a catalyst for creative prowess. Uncover the essence of resilience through their unique stylistic vision, venturing into trauma and emerging stronger.
A Talk And Q&A With
SIMIN VASWANI and CLAIRE CHUBBUCK
Simin, CEO of Sarina Film Productions, crafts emotionally intricate films that resonate with the human experience. Claire, daughter of renowned coach Ivana Chubbuck, pioneers cathartic realism, bringing purpose and healing through her films.
VIDEO COMING SOON
September 30th | Awards Gala Ceremony
DAY TWO
Recap
A Journey Through Time and Elegance
Day 2 of our extraordinary event marked the culmination of our unwavering commitment to elevate our top filmmakers into absolute celebrities and make them unapologetically proud of their hard-earned work.
This Gala Ceremony was unlike any other, a night to be cherished forever. The red carpet, rolled out in all its glory, with everybody dressed in Great Gatsby Style, beckoned us into an evening of unrivaled elegance and sophistication, an evening where we walked that crimson pathway, surrounded by the brightest stars of our cinematic community.
The heart of the evening was the presentation of 28 unique VMA Statuettes™, each a symbol of excellence in the world of cinema. These prestigious awards honored the best projects from the 2022-2023 editions of the Vegas Movie Awards™, celebrating the incredible talent that graced our screens. These trophies held a combined value exceeding $10,000, generously provided by our non-profit organization, FROMTHEART™, and our main sponsors.
Day 2 was a testament to the power of film, the celebration of talent, and the creation of lasting memories. It was a night that took us back in time while propelling us forward into the future of cinematic excellence. A night of glamour, celebration, and, most importantly, FAMILY.
Here is the shortlist of nominated projects and filmmakers, and the winners of our Inaugural Gala 2023:
Photo Gallery
RED CARPET