2017 Jury

Raj Brinder Singh is known for his work on John Wick, The November Man, and Celeste & Jesse Forever.

Robert A. Ferretti, born in 1948, began filmmaking in New England and won an early contest sponsored by American Cinema Editors.

Sweta Rai is an Oscar-shortlisted producer and director, founder of Indo Holly Films, blending meaningful cinema with Hollywood storytelling.

Scott Moesta is known for Tug of War (2026) and A Bunch of Fives (2021), with a strong presence in film production.

Mark Hefti is a writer-producer known for genre-blending indie films, including the award-winning Tomorrow Is Today.

Lifeng Wang is known for Fireman Sam: The Great Fire of Pontypandy, Alien Alert!, and The Long March.

Max Amini is an Iranian-American comedian, actor, and producer, known for global stand-up tours and TV appearances.

Spike Seldin is known for The A-Team (2010), Face/Off (1997), and His Way.

Social justice activist and NYU law professor, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, advocating for justice and children’s rights.

Casting director Sharon Lieblein, CSA discovered Ariana Grande & Emma Roberts, shaping hits for Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.

Robert E. Baruc is an experienced producer known for roles from Executive Producer to Co-Executive Producer.

Michael Iver Peterson is an American novelist whose 2003 murder conviction was later overturned, granting him a new trial.

Fern Champion is a veteran casting director who discovered stars like Cameron Diaz and shaped iconic films and TV series.

Producer and executive producer of films including Smoking Guns (2016) and A Christmas Eve Miracle (2015).

Steven Paul is a filmmaker, actor, and talent manager, and founder & CEO of Crystal Sky Pictures.