The Way We Speak took home the Honorable Mention: Feature or Documentary award at the 2024 Julien Dubuque International Film Festival (JDIFF). Ian’s first feature as writer-director was among 12 winning films chosen from more than 150 officially selected narrative and documentary shorts and features.

Now in its 13th year, JDIFF made MovieMaker magazine’s Top 50 festivals of 2024 after past recognition in Variety and as one of MovieMaker magazine’s “25 coolest film festivals in the world.” Ian was on hand to receive the award, which was handed out during the JDIFF annual ceremony at the historic Five Flags Theater in downtown Dubuque.

Visit the Telegraph Herald for the complete list of winners.