"Dr. Hand" Wins Prestigious Telly Award

From: T.S. Writing Services - May 16, 2006

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“Dr. Hand” Wins Prestigious Telly Award
Film Captures Bronze in Outstanding Children’s Audience Category

Washington, DC [May 16, 2006] – “Dr. Hand” is a recipient of a Bronze Telly in the 27th Annual Telly Awards, placing in the Outstanding Children’s Audience category out of 12,500 entries. “When I received the notification that we had won this award, I pretty much almost hit the floor in shock,” film director and producer Gary Brooks, who is deaf, said. “It’s such a tremendous, huge honor to receive this award.”

“Dr. Hand” thrills viewers of all ages as a magician embarks on a journey with his sidekicks in search of three legendary ASL elements in order to heal an ill Deaf boy. During their adventure, they enter a forbidden forest, secret caves, and a mysterious lagoon, encountering dangerous creatures along the way.

The 80-minute film, the first in a trilogy, was a challenge to produce, said Brooks. “I had to save my own personal money until I was able to afford the financing for this film. Next up was filming, which took place every Saturday from September 2003 until October 2004.” Brooks also spent countless hours on editing, visual effects, and animation. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the talent of the actors and crew involved in this production, to be honest. They were such a great group, and it was like a big, happy family.”

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable television commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. The Telly Awards is a widely known and highly respected international competition. A prestigious judging panel of over 25 accomplished industry professionals who are previous Telly winners evaluate entries to recognize distinction in creative works. Entries do not compete against each other; rather, they compete against a high standard of excellence.

“It’s my hope that with this award, the hearing world will know that deaf filmmakers like myself can accomplish filmmaking,” Brooks commented. “It’s my dream that Hollywood executive producers will give me a chance to direct a major film. Seeing the magic and beauty of American Sign Language come to life has been an incredible ride.”

For more information on Dr. Hand, please visit www.blueapplefilms.com or www.buyasl.com.

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