The European Independent Film Festival, Europe's premier event for independent cinema, announces this year's 24 award-winning films.

After screening 101 films from 33 countries, ÉCU 2012 ended the weekend with a lively ceremony honoring its award-winners. They include "Best Director" for "The Return" (Dir. Blerta Zeqiri) "Best European Independent Dramatic Feature 2012" for "Women and Children" (Dir. Daniel Mitelpunkt) "Best European Independent Dramatic Short 2012" for "Corner Shop" (Dir.George Hamilton) and the festival's highest honor, "Europe's Best Independent Film 2012" Berlinoises" (Dir. Rocco Labbé).

"I was delighted that our film won an award at such an important and enjoyable event. The festival was a memorable experience, meeting the audience, great filmmakers and super-friendly staff." Award-winner, Daniel Mitelpunkt

Since the festival's inception, ÉCU has proved to be a discovery point for many of the world's most talented independent filmmakers, each of whom are driven by the passion to create great cinema, but do not benefit from large production budgets. As a result of ÉCU's commitment to the discovery, promotion, and projection of independent films, the festival is quickly becoming one of Europe's major cultural events.

"I was honoured to showcase such a great slate of films over the weekend and to present the next generation of storytellers to our audience. So many directors from so many different countries were all united through their shared independent spirit and creative determination," commented Scott Hillier, ÉCU President and Academy Award honoured independent filmmaker.

For a full list of ÉCU 2012 award winners, please visit our website at www.ecufilmfestival.com.