On March 10, 2025, the Cineteca Nacional hosted the 31st edition of the Claqueta AMCI Awards, an event that honors the talent of students from the Mexican Association of Independent Filmmakers (AMCI). Year after year, these awards celebrate the work of a new generation of filmmakers who are beginning to carve out their path in the audiovisual industry.
As part of its commitment to supporting emerging talent, EFD Studios had the honor of presenting the Best Cinematography Award, recognizing the visual excellence and sensitivity of the selected projects. This year, the award was shared by Mel Ramírez B for Mortal Herida and Tania Gutiérrez “Pixie” for Who’s In Control.
The award was presented by Genaro de la Cruz, Technical Manager of EFD Studios’ Camera Department, who congratulated the winners and emphasized the importance of cinematography as a fundamental pillar of cinematic storytelling.
Tania Gutiérrez “Pixie” and Mel Ramírez B – Best Cinematography Award Winners
A Night Filled with Talent and Recognition
The ceremony, hosted by actress Laura de Ita and AMCI’s Director General Pedro Araneda, was marked by emotional moments and well-deserved recognition. One of the most memorable highlights of the night was a tribute to Sergio Corona, an actor and comedian with more than 60 years of experience in film and television. His remarkable legacy, including roles in Como dice el dicho, Esta historia me suena, and Hasta que el dinero nos separe, was warmly celebrated by attendees, who applauded his outstanding contribution to Mexico’s audiovisual industry.
Sergio Corona – Celebrated Mexican Actor and Comedian
Highlights from the Night’s Winners
In addition to Best Cinematography, AMCI awarded prizes across several categories:
- Best Production Design: Tania Sánchez for Buenos Días
- Best Sound Design: Daniel Bañuelos for Buenos Días
- Best Editing and Postproduction: Daniel Bañuelos for Buenos Días
- Best Original Score: Estudio Merak for Reiteración
- Best Promotional Image: Daniel Argé for Mis XV
- Best Actress: Ingrid Pohlenz for Kamel
- Best Actor: Mikael Lacko for El Hombre que Amaba las Flores
- Best Direction: Axel M. Olivar for Buenos Días
- Best Executive Production: Axel M. Olivar, David Pon, Eduardo Barron, Mario Espinosa, and Erick Velasco for Buenos Días
- Best Music Video: Who’s in Control
- Best Documentary Short: Con Límite de Tiempo
- Best Fiction Short: Mortal Herida
The Future of Mexican Cinema
Founded in 1993 as the first private film school in Mexico, AMCI has become a cornerstone in the training of filmmakers. Each year, its students demonstrate their talent, creativity, and passion for storytelling—contributing to a richer and more diverse national film landscape.
For EFD Studios, being part of this celebration reaffirms its commitment to cinema and to the next generation of audiovisual creators. We believe in the power of the image to tell stories and in the importance of supporting those who are shaping the future of our industry.