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PRESS RELEASE

Documentary film about the disappearing indigenous cultures of Taiwan wins Golden Drum award for best film at the 2012 Nepal International Indigenous Film Festival

Kathmandu, Nepal - July 18, 2012 - Voices in the Clouds, a documentary film project supported by the ATAYAL Organization, was selected as the winner of the "Golden Drum" award by the 2012 Nepal International Indigenous Film Festival. The award is given to the top selection by the 3-member international panel of judges at the fesitval — Australian film producer/director Andrew Vial, Indian film producer/director Rwita Dutta and Nepal's archaeologist Dr Damber Chemjong. The film festival, which is in its 6th year, was held in Nepal's capital of Kathmandu from July 12-15, 2012 and had a total of 79 national and international films represented. This high level of participation made the award significant to the filmmakers.

In regards to the authenticity of the indigenous culture reflected in the films, Dr Chemjong shared, "The films have justified the authenticity of indigenous culture and have brought forward real issues like search for identity and problems of indigenous youth in the modern world."

"This award is not only recognition of our message about the importance of everyone's self-discovery of their cultural roots, it is also recognition of the rising importance that the indigenous cultures of Taiwan have in the world. I am extremely honored," stated Mr. Coolidge. "I know our film producers, Aaron Hosé, Chris Bremer, and their crew, who dedicated their time and effort to craft the story, are incredibly honored as well."

This is the 6th festival award for the independently-funded film, which has been screened in film festivals around the world. This is the second international award in two months. In June 2012, the film won the "Best International Indigenous Film" award at the 2012 Wairoa Maori Film Festival in New Zealand.

Voices in the Clouds is a documentary film which features Tony Coolidge's discovery of his mother's disappearing indigenous heritage in Taiwan, and reminds its viewers of the importance of connecting with the culture of their ancestors before it is too late. The film's selection into the 2012 Nepal International Indigenous Film Festival was made in conjunction with the participation of Taiwan Indigenous TV in the festival. The film gave the filmmakers and audience in Nepal a glimpse into the indigenous culture of Taiwan. The film's introduction of Taiwanese indigenous culture around the world has led to the launch of new projects of the ATAYAL Organization, inviting tribal groups from other countries to Taiwan to connect with the culture on the island firsthand.

For Press Inquiries, please contact the ATAYAL Organization by clicking here or call (407) 459-7766.