Belgian director Charlotte Verminck’s short film Mind of Thoughts has achieved another milestone in its international journey, winning the Best Sound award at the New York Film Festival, organizers announced on Monday.
The recognition crowns the work of sound technicians Eneas Mentzel, Arjan Bogaert, Michel Gregoire and Kati Falk-Flores, whose meticulous sound design was praised for adding depth and atmosphere to Verminck’s ambitious short.
The award highlights the increasing importance of sound in modern filmmaking, particularly in shorts where every sensory detail shapes audience immersion. The win at the prestigious New York Film Festival adds to the film’s growing list of honors.
Earlier this year, Mind of Thoughts premiered at the 25th Beverly Hills Film Festival, where it secured the Best International Film award, placing Verminck and her team firmly on the radar of international cinema critics and festival programmers.
A rising voice in Belgian cinema
Verminck, who has been steadily building a reputation as one of Belgium’s most promising young filmmakers, described the award as both a personal victory and a collective achievement for her crew.
“Sound is often the invisible heartbeat of a film. I’m proud of what our team has achieved in bringing the story’s psychological intensity to life,” she said in a statement.
The short film explores themes of inner conflict, fragmented memory, and the blurred lines between perception and reality. Its minimalist visuals are paired with an evocative soundscape, which critics say elevates the work from simple narrative into a visceral cinematic experience.
Local roots, global acclaim
Part of Mind of Thoughts was shot in the village of Middelburg, in the East Flanders municipality of Maldegem. The choice of location, with its quiet streets and historic backdrop, contrasts with the film’s internal drama, creating a haunting setting that resonated with international audiences.
Local authorities and residents have expressed pride in the recognition, noting how the film has placed a small Flemish village on the global cinematic map. “It’s not every day that Middelburg appears in a film being celebrated in New York,” one resident said.
International recognition of Belgian talent
Belgian cinema has seen a steady rise in international visibility over the past decade, with filmmakers gaining recognition at Cannes, Venice, and other leading festivals. Verminck’s success is the latest example of how Belgian directors and crews are making a mark far beyond national borders.
Industry analysts suggest that Verminck’s international trajectory could pave the way for larger projects in the future.
“Winning technical awards, particularly in sound, signals a director’s ability to collaborate at the highest level,” said Belgian film critic Annelies Dewaele. “This could open doors for Verminck in both European co-productions and Hollywood-backed projects.”
With the New York Film Festival honor under its belt, Mind of Thoughts is expected to continue touring the international circuit, with further screenings scheduled in Europe and Asia later this year. For Verminck and her team, the journey of their short film is proving that Belgian cinema can resonate powerfully with audiences across the globe.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
