In an illustrious ceremony held at the prestigious Frieze Los Angeles art fair, Ja’Lisa Arnold emerged as the recipient of the coveted $10,000 Deutsche Bank Frieze Los Angeles Film Award for 2025. Alongside her achievement, Christopher Guerrero was honored with the $2,500 Audience Award, decided by public vote. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the esteemed non-profit Ghetto Film School and the film studio Fifth Season, has solidified its place as an essential platform for nurturing the talents of tomorrow’s filmmakers. Since its inception in 2019, this program has supported over 40 emerging filmmakers, providing them with invaluable exposure and resources to cultivate their craft.
The film that earned Arnold the Jury’s acclaim, “Grief Cannot Exist Without Joy,” poignantly explores the themes of loss, love, and personal healing through music. It tells the story of Tobi, a talented musician grappling with the devastating death of his brother, Lou. The path to healing is intricate, as Tobi seeks solace in the completion of an unfinished song dedicated to Lou. This narrative not only highlights the emotional resilience required to confront grief but also underscores the powerful connection that exists between music and memory. Claudio de Sanctis, Head of Private Bank at Deutsche Bank, praised Arnold’s work, emphasizing its sensitive portrayal of brotherly love and the journey of overcoming loss. This acknowledgment showcases the artistic merit and emotional depth inherent in Arnold’s storytelling.
A panel of distinguished experts from the film and art sectors were responsible for selecting the winners this year. The jury included influential figures such as Christine Messineo, Director for the Americas at Frieze, and notable filmmaker RaMell Ross. Their collective experience and insight into the industry underscore the credibility of the awards, assuring that only the most deserving filmmakers receive recognition. Their decision to award Arnold highlights the film’s unique narrative, offering a nuanced understanding of grief that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Meanwhile, Christopher Guerrero’s award-winning film, “Reprogrammed,” presents a compelling storyline that blends the boundaries between humanity and artificial intelligence. Set against a retro-futuristic backdrop of Los Angeles, the film follows Andrea, a roboticist who is determined to create IRIS, a cutting-edge AI system. As Andrea navigates the complexities of teaching IRIS to understand sentience, she must also confront her own emotional detachment from her father. This duality of exploring both technological advancement and human relationships makes Guerrero’s work a distinctive commentary on modern existence.
The recognition of these two exceptional filmmakers at Frieze Los Angeles emphasizes the event’s commitment to enriching the artistic landscape of the film industry. In the heart of a city known for its cinematic legacy, the Deutsche Bank Film Award continues to spotlight innovative narratives and diverse voices. The initiative reinforces the importance of storytelling in addressing universal human experiences, paving the way for future filmmakers to share their unique perspectives. As the landscape of film evolves, such awards are critical in fostering creativity and diversity in storytelling, ensuring that emerging talents receive the spotlight they deserve.