The Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award has emerged as a leading platform dedicated to uplifting and spotlighting emerging voices in the filmmaking community. In its 2025 edition, Ja’Lisa Arnold has been awarded the prestigious $10,000 cash prize for her insightful narrative short film, “Grief Cannot Exist Without Joy.” Complementing her achievement, Christopher Guerrero was honored with the $2,500 Audience Award, a testament to the support of the public who passionately voted for their favorite film during an exclusive ceremony held at the distinguished Frieze Los Angeles art fair.
Since its inception in 2019, the Deutsche Bank initiative has cultivated and advanced the careers of over 40 promising filmmakers, forming a critical incubator within the industry. Partnering with the Ghetto Film School and Fifth Season, both honors recognize not just creative excellence, but also the significance of storytelling in addressing complex human emotions. The initiative has grown into a revered program, celebrating its sixth edition this year.
Arnold’s winning film centers on Tobi, a talented musician grappling with the profound loss of his brother, Lou. As he navigates his grief, music becomes his lifeline. The narrative unfolds around Tobi’s commitment to finishing an incomplete song meant as a tribute to Lou, highlighting the transformative power of art as a means of healing. This poignant exploration of love and loss is what the Jury recognized, with Claudio de Sanctis from Deutsche Bank remarking on the film’s sensitive representation of brotherly bonds amidst grief.
The Jury for the award showcases an amalgamation of influential voices from the film and art sectors. This year’s panel included not only De Sanctis but also key figures such as Christine Messineo, Tayanna Todd, and Oscar-nominated filmmaker RaMell Ross. Their collective insight stems from a range of disciplines, providing a comprehensive understanding of contemporary cinematic storytelling.
Christopher Guerrero’s film, “Reprogrammed,” received the Audience Award and examines technological themes through the lens of personal relationships. Set in a retro-futuristic rendition of Los Angeles, the narrative delves into the life of Andrea, a roboticist whose relentless pursuits lead her to create an artificial intelligence, IRIS. The film deftly navigates the complexities of emotional intelligence, showcasing Andrea’s struggle to foster a connection with her creation while confronting her estranged relationship with her father.
Frieze Los Angeles not only serves as a backdrop for these awards but also embodies the vibrant intersection of art and cinema. Messineo expressed enthusiasm for the award’s continued legacy, celebrating both the creativity and resilience of filmmakers within the bustling heart of the industry. As Arnold and Guerrero are acknowledged for their outstanding contributions, it’s a clear indication that the future of filmmaking remains vibrant and hopeful, fostering a new generation of storytellers equipped to articulate the multifaceted human experience.
The Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award continues to play a pivotal role in recognizing and supporting emerging talent, underscoring the essential narratives that new filmmakers bring to the forefront of the cinematic landscape.