We're thrilled to share a praise report with you.
Fantail Studios has been recognised internationally by a variety of film festivals, including the ICVM Crown Awards, one of the most respected and long-standing festivals celebrating excellence in Christian and faith-based film (past honorees includeThe Chosen, War Room, and I Can Only Imagine).
Honours and Nominations
ICVM Crown Awards - Finalist in the following categories:
The Rescue - Best Documentary Under $50,000 (this is for our 20-minute documentary)
The Rescue - Best Evangelistic Production (this is for our 20-minute documentary)
The Rescue - Best Screenplay (this is the screenplay for our feature-length scripted film)
Mana Atua - Best Editing
Mana Atua - Best Foreign Production
The ICVM Crown Awards committee selects five finalists in each category, and the winners are announced in February 2026. Check out the photo below of Jared at the recent announcement of the finalists in Orlando, Florida.
NZ Indie Film Festival - Winner
Mana Atua - Best Feature Documentary
Docuworld Film Festival - Winner
Mana Atua - Best Male Director (Jared van Berkel and Darren Simmonds)
This recognition in the awards landscape reflects a powerful vote of confidence from influential industry leaders, affirming the impact and urgency behind these stories.

How You Can Stand With Us
- Pray for rest, clarity, and fresh momentum while we're home; continued favour with partners; and wisdom as The Rescue moves toward production.
- Share the vision with friends or churches who love redemptive stories: www.rescue.film
- Partner financially - there are two pathways:
- Donate to Fantail Studios to help fuel development and impact: www.fantailstudios.com/giving
- Explore a commercial investment in The Rescue. For more information, please email Jared at jared@fantailstudios.com