Ambrose Liao and Tyler Parr both won the $1,000 Brian Linehan Actors Award for their work showcased in the NSI Online Short Film Festival.

Ambrose Liao (pictured above) won for her work in Home. The jury had this to say about her work:

Media executive Tara Ellis: “Ambrose Liao’s beautiful performance has a delicacy that draws us into her intimate world and makes her emotional journey ring so true to the audience.”

Programmer Laura Good: “Ambrose Liao is captivating in this complex yet understated portrayal of a young woman on the brink of adulthood.”

Recent winner of the A&E Short Filmmakers Award Aaron Mirkin: “Ambrose Liao’s naturalistic performance is the centrepiece of this wonderful film.”

Ambrose Liao said, “It’s a big surprise to me because this is the first prize [I’ve won] in my life and it’s really appreciated. Thank you NSI!”

Tyler Parr (pictured above) won for his work in Ironied.

The jury had this to say about his work:

Programmer Agata Del Sorbo: “Tyler Parr conveys a vast range of emotions playing two roles in Ironied, skilfully navigating both comic and dramatic moments.”

Harold Greenberg Fund President John Galway: “Writer, director and performer in two roles … needless to say a real (and dedicated!) talent here. Tyler’s transformation to play both Donald and Charlie is amazing.”

Recent winner of the A&E Short Filmmakers Award Athena Han: “Tyler Parr’s performance delicately shows the internal struggles and vulnerability of the character Charlie in this poignant short.”

Tyler Parr said, “I am truly humbled! Brian Linehan was an exceptional human being and receiving this award in his name is an honour. Thank you, most sincerely.”

Visit the NSI Online Short Film Festival for more great Canadian short films.