Al Jazeera Takes Top Prize At Prestigious Monte Carlo Television Festival

By Al Jazeera English Network

Al Jazeera has been recognised at the prestigious Monte Carlo Television Festival, taking the top prize at the Festival's Award Ceremony last night.

The Golden Nymph for Best News Documentary was awarded to Al Jazeera English series Correspondent for the compelling film Identity and Exile: an American's struggle with Zionism.

Based on the personal journey of Al Jazeera correspondent Matthew Cassel, the film explores his defiance of the cultural norms of his Jewish community, and asks brave questions on the unbending support for Israeli policies, regardless of the cost.

Farid Barsoum, executive producer of Correspondent, said, 'It's great that Identity and Exile has been recognised with such a prestigious award. It's a well-crafted and beautifully told personal story that treats such a polarising subject with incredible sensitivity and intelligence..'

Filmmakers Marie-Helen Carleton and Micah Garen (Four Corner Media) joined Matthew Cassel at the ceremony.

'It is an honour for us to win a Golden Nymph tonight,' said Matthew. 'My story has resonated with many people around the world, thanks to the skill and courage of the filmmakers and the whole team at Al Jazeera. I'm proud we have highlighted an important perspective to a global audience.'

In London, Online Media Awards recognised Simon Hooper as Best Freelance Writer, for his outstanding writing primarily on British multiculturalism and community relations for Al Jazeera English online. The interactive department also received a special commendation for their digital work over the past twelve months.

Simon said: "I would like to thank Al Jazeera for allowing me to explore real stories, and to present the opportunity to give people real voices through my work.'

A collection of Simon Hooper's work is available here.

Watch and embed Identity and Exile: an American's struggle with Zionism at: