For this week’s IZZY Excellence 2024 honor, we proudly celebrate AYA as the Best Short Drama Film. Directed by the acclaimed duo Oded Binnun and Mihal Brezis, this beautifully crafted short is a poignant exploration of connection, serendipity, and the human experience.
AYA begins at an international airport, where a man mistakes a woman in arrivals for his driver. Their journey together to Jerusalem, where he is to judge a music competition, unfolds into a tender and introspective story. As the two strangers traverse physical and emotional landscapes, they slowly begin to connect, revealing vulnerabilities and forging an unexpected bond.
Starring the incomparable Sarah Adler and Ulrich Thomsen, AYA captivates with its nuanced performances. Adler’s portrayal of the enigmatic Aya brings depth and subtlety to the character, while Thomsen’s reserved yet poignant performance perfectly complements her. Together, they create a dynamic that is as delicate as it is compelling, pulling viewers into their shared journey.
The film’s accolades speak to its brilliance. Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film at the 87th Academy Awards, AYA gained international recognition for its masterful storytelling and emotional resonance. Though it did not win, its nomination alone underscores the film’s artistic and cinematic achievement.
As we honor AYA, IZZY celebrates the vision of Oded Binnun and Mihal Brezis, the outstanding performances of Adler and Thomsen, and the entire team behind this unforgettable film. Join us in applauding this extraordinary short drama that lingers in the heart long after the credits roll, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of human connection.
From the short drama film Aya on IZZY
