INDIANAPOLIS – This evening the 22nd Annual Heartland Film Festival (Oct. 17-26) has announced its four Grand Prize Award Winners at its Awards Ceremony at the Indiana Repertory Theatre.

The black tie event was emceed by Michael Grady, Indiana Pacers/Indiana Fever emcee and ESPN Radio personality, and introduced by Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. Special guest presenters included professional basketball player Tamika Catchings (Indiana Fever), radio personality Scott Hoke (WFYI) and Janet Allen (Indiana Repertory Theatre). Actor Vanessa Hudgens received the Pioneering Spirit: Rising Star Award for her role in “Gimme Shelter,” the Festival’s Opening Night Event film that held its world premiere on Thursday.

“Every year it’s exciting to see amazing filmmaker talent from around the world right here in Indianapolis,” said Tim Irwin, Heartland’s artistic director. “Our Festival does an amazing job of connecting films to audiences and audiences to filmmakers. Heartland is proud to honor the very best in international, independent films that do more than just entertain. As evidenced by this year’s winners, Heartland continues to grow artistically and redefine expectations of what inspiring film looks like.”

Visit HeartlandFilmFestival.org for tickets, press materials and additional information.