On 22 March, Smiley Movement hosted the 5th Charity Film Awards at the ODEON Luxe, Leicester Square. The Charity Film Awards is the world's largest campaign for cause-based films. Since its creation five years ago, more than 2,000 causes have benefitted from the awards, gaining exposure, donations and volunteers. This year the event was hosted by comedian and impressionist Ronni Ancona and included entertainment from a live musical performance and a magician.

The winner of 'Charity Film of the Year' was "Whatever It Takes", a powerful film by Macmillan Cancer Support showcasing how staff are compassionate companions to those living with cancer. The film, lasting just under two and half minutes, features Macmillan staff doing whatever it takes to support those who face the daily challenges of living with cancer from hugs, to hand-holding, to making them smile. Key moments in the film include a staff helping a crying girl who sees her dad's new scar for the first time, or someone making an elderly man undergoing treatment laugh in his bed.

The film, viewed nearly one million times on YouTube reminds us of the strength of health workers to help get people living with cancer, and their families, through each day. It was launched in early 2021, amid the Covid-19 lockdown, and directed by Jonathan Alric. 

The film was scored highly by judges, and crowned with the grand prix trophy during the Awards ceremony in ODEON Luxe, Leicester Square. More than 300 charities entered the 5th Charity Film Awards, and just over 100 were shortlisted as Finalists. Click here to see the winners in full on SmileyMovement.org.