With a singular, carefully controlled vision and luminous 35 mm cinematography, Andrea Pallaoro imbues a heartbreaking domestic story with an iconic, mythical feel. The jury were deeply impressed by the skill with which this first time director deftly wove together a quiet, elegantly paced visual poem, yet still had us on the edge of our seats are we watched the drama unfold. This stunningly composed, unique piece made a strong, lasting impact, and we are eager to see what this visionary filmmaker will do next.

For capturing the awkward transition from youth to adulthood with beautiful black and white photography, compelling characterization and haunting moments that resonated long after viewing. The jury agreed that Germinal Roaux is an exciting new director to watch.

Lupita Nyong'o is outstanding as the exploited slave whose beauty attracts the attention of Michael Fassbender's vicious slave master. She delivers a raw and deeply moving performance that serves as the fulcrum for the film's message of the inhumanity of slavery.

American Hustle grabs you from the start and is populated by a group of eminently believable characters as brought to life by this brilliant cast.

We were moved and awed by the filmmakers' dogged yet sensitive approach to a relentless and covert artist, as well as their honest inquiry into her mysterious life. The persistence of vision exemplified by the filmmakers, both in discovering Ms. Maier's work and in the uncovering of her story, was an impressive feat for any filmmakers, let alone first time ones.

Thomas Newman is a master at creating memorable film scores. In Saving Mr. Banks, he pays tribute to Mary Poppins composers Richard and Robert Sherman through an indelible original score.

"Director Steve McQueen captivates his audiences by challenging them with often unorthodox and unrelenting subject matter and technique. McQueen is a master of utilizing the senses to create the essence of his works. In his latest effort, 12 Years a Slave, audiences become integrally involved in the unbearably violent nightmare of a free black man, who is kidnapped and sold into slavery, eventually to return home to freedom. To Steve McQueen, a soaring talent who ranks among the greats with each directorial effort, the Palm Springs International Film Festival is proud to present him the 2014 Director of the Year Award."

In a remarkable feat that vividly illustrates the range of his talent, this year he portrayed two real life characters, each a powerhouse performance in its own right. In the film Captain Phillips, he plays Richard Phillips, the captain of a ship hijacked by pirates, while in Saving Mr. Banks he plays Walt Disney trying to turn the book Mary Poppins into a film - two roles that couldn't be more divergent.

A country song of a film - with all the love, pain, tragedy, and heartache life can throw at you. A testament to the human spirit and how we can endure almost anything as long as there is even a sliver of hope or faith. Set in the small country of Belgium, this is a very personal story mirroring the ultimate decline of the American dream.

Tied with Vivre est facile avec les yeux fermés (2013). --Heli gave an incisive and searing portrayal of the drug violence in Mexico and its impact on the local population.

Tied with Heli (2013). --Living is Easy with Eyes Closed speaks of the power of dreams and ideals against the backdrop of an oppressive regime.

For capturing the universal themes of love, family and loneliness in a world class performance of Paulina Garcia.

For his outstanding contributions to the art and business of cinema, notably his work in directing the upcoming "Saving Mr. Banks."

For his scope of work ranging from his comedic performances and more dramatic fare such as his Academy Award® nominated role in "Moneyball" to the upcoming highly-anticipated Scorsese film "The Wolf of Wall Street."