By Greg Holden

The recently held Christian Life International Film Festival drew people who had never been to Chatham-Kent, into a family friendly film and entertainment experience. One couple arrived from St. Catherines after being in church that morning and others came from Iowa, New York and Chicago.

The two-day festival was held last weekend in Thamesville and included art displays, a carving made by Robbin Wenzoski, comedy by James MacNeil and films, films, films!

One of the contributing artists, Cindy DeHaan spoke to the CKReview about what inspired her art. “I had never painted before. I never took any courses on it, I just painted what the Lord guided me to paint”, said DeHaan. DeHaan spoke of giving paintings to pastors and others that reflected their chosen religious path. DeHaan’s work was on display as she cheerfully described each inspiration and how her art had affected others.

Wenzoski sculpted a CLIFF logo in wood, a piece that organizer Florin Marksteiner showed great pride in. MacNeil had rave reviews for his signature act, clean stand-up comedy. Marksteiner said that work has already begun on CLIFF for next year.

The movies were diverse, 49 in total showed, although the theme was consistent. The big winner was The Henchemen, directed by Nathan VonMinden, taking home $1000 in winnings. You can watch the winning film below.

Here is a list of the winners:

Best Short Film – $500 The Henchman Directed by: Nathan VonMinden From: USA

Best Animation - $500 Twirl Directed by: Nathaniel Winckler From: USA

Best Documentary - $500 Haiti: a David and Goliath Story Directed by: Roberto Munoz From: Canada

Best Music Video - $500 Excuses Submitted by: John Giurin From: Canada

Best of Best - $500 [from all the categories] The Henchman Directed by: Nathan VonMinden From: USA

Best Local Production [Chatham-Kent] Excuses Submitted by: John Giurin From: Canada

Best Canadian Production Haiti: a David and Goliath Story Directed by: Roberto Munoz From: Canada

Best International Production The Henchman Directed by: Nathan VonMinden In category: Short Film From: USA

Best Indie Production Suitcase Directed by: Michael Brown In category: Documentary From: USA

Most Powerful Message Hope For Hurting Hearts Submitted by: Gary Zelasko In category: Documentary From: USA

Youngest Filmmaker Luke Broyles in category: Documentary Titles: G[water] and Freedom From: USA

Most Prolific Filmmaker Ian Woodward in category: Documentary Titles: From Bohemia’s Woods and Fields, Too Many Ghosts and Silly Robin From: UK