Down’s doc takes Tribeca honour

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Monica & David already has a US distribution deal

A documentary about a couple with Down’s syndrome and a drama about a woman escaping her oppressive life have been honoured at the Tribeca festival.

Monica & David, which follows a US couple’s preparation for marriage, won the festival’s documentary prize.

And German film When We Leave, the tale of a young mother who starts a new life in Berlin, won best film and best actress for Sibel Kekilli.

The ninth Tribeca Film Festival awards were presented in New York on Thursday.

British winner

Austrian film-maker Feo Aladag worked for six years on When We Leave, rehearsing with the actors for six months.

The jury said the film "examines one woman’s struggle for personal freedom".

"It’s a theme that is often explored but rarely told with such humanity, subtlety, craftsmanship or immediacy," they said.

Monica & David director Alexandra Codina picked up the award from Jessica Alba

The film "balances complex social issues with honest human yearnings", they added.

Monica & David is directed by the female subject’s cousin, Alexandra Codina.

Eric Elmosnino won best actor for his role as singer Serge Gainsbourg in biopic Gainsbourg.

Briton Clio Barnard was named best new documentary maker for The Arbor, about British playwright Andrea Dunbar.

Dunbar, who died at the age of 29, was best known for her play Rita, Sue and Bob Too, made into a film in 1986 film by Alan Clarke.

French director Kim Chapiron won the award for best new feature film-maker for drama Dog Pound, the story of three teenagers held in a detention centre.