Onyi Moss Clinches Best Script Award at 2024 Cannes Film Festival’s TikTokShortFilm Competition
Reflecting on her journey, Moss shared her gratitude in an Instagram post on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, expressing, “Two years ago, I was rejected from film school. Now, my short film has won Best Script at the Cannes Film Festival and is screening in theatres (Cinémas Pathé) in five cities in France. This was my third time entering the #TikTokShortFilm competition, and I’m glad I didn’t give up on myself.”
Acknowledging the pivotal support of her husband, her agency, and her dedicated followers, Moss attributed her success to their unwavering encouragement, stating, “All of this success wouldn’t have been possible without my husband @northernshutterstudio, who’s always patiently behind the lens, my agency @season25, who continue to cheer me on as I pursue my dreams, and, of course, all of you who follow and support my work through your screens. WE DID IT!!!”
“With Deepest Regrets” narrates the tale of a young writer grappling with a lack of inspiration until she chances upon a poignant letter during a stroll, igniting a newfound creative spark.
The announcement of Moss’s win coincided with TikTok’s revelation of the winners of the third edition of its Short Film Competition on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. The Cannes Film Festival, renowned for showcasing diverse cinematic creations from around the globe, served as the backdrop for this celebration of creativity.
TikTok reported an overwhelming response to the competition, with over 70,000 submissions spanning 55 countries and the hashtag #TikTokShortFilm amassing over 2.3 million posts on the platform. Entries were evaluated across three categories: Grand Gagnant, Best Script, and Best Directing.
The Grand Gagnant recipient, Atipat Phukosi, received a cash prize of €10,000 (approximately ₦15.7 million), while Moss, the Best Script winner, and Angely Croq, the Best Directing awardee, each received cash prizes of €5,000 (around ₦7.8 million).
Moss’s triumph not only underscores her talent and perseverance but also highlights the power of platforms like TikTok in democratizing access to opportunities and amplifying creative voices on a global stage.
