For its fresh and innovative storytelling that soars high from the seemingly small space of the narrative to the larger issues of acceptance, friendship, and love, driven by a vision whose complexity lies in its simplicity. It is only apt that in the age of rampant commercialism and unstoppable blockbuster movies, we award the QCinema Asian Next Wave Best Film to the movie with the biggest heart.

For its profound and lyrical exploration of folklore and companionship in the era of relentless industrialization, confidently told in two narratives layered with poetry, riddles, and puzzles.

For its exquisite OFW story, utilizing creative doodles and poignant imagery of a quirky-and-fragile perspective of a child's observation of the deterioration of her family, leading to the animated sea of OFWs.

For its beautiful yet out-of-this world re-imagining of folklore, where language, cultural, historical and intergalactic barriers do not exist in the realm of love.

For skillfully interweaving fact and fiction as well as drama and documentary, and for laying down the groundwork of stories that emphasize the director’s poignant journey through recorded phone calls, home video footage, family photos, and the emotional memories enveloped in them.

For deftly examining the position of the woman in society and her violent experiences rooted in history and culture, and for prompting expansive and problematic discourses that expose the prevailing system that oppresses all men and women.