This might be an unpopular opinion, but I honestly don’t believe film festivals define great filmmaking. Over the years, I’ve seen incredible films and talented creators go unnoticed, while others receive recognition for reasons that have little to do with the quality of the work itself. Too often, the system feels driven by connections, politics, marketing, and money rather than pure creativity. My belief is simple: if you create something truly powerful, original, and meaningful, it will find its audience. Great art doesn’t need validation from a trophy or a festival badge. Having worked in the industry for many years, I personally place very little value on awards. Even when it comes to the biggest awards in the world, I see them more as industry celebrations than a true measure of artistic excellence. At the end of the day, the audience decides what lasts. Not a jury, not a committee, and not an awards ceremony. What’s your opinion?