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Parkinson's disease film "Not By Choice" Wins Audience Award at Awareness Film Festival 2025
- Gabriele Bussetti
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Short drama on Parkinson's disease by BGM Film earns audience honors
October 26, 2025 | Festival Award
LOS ANGELES/SANTA MONICA — October 26, 2025 — BGM Film announces that "Not By Choice," co-written and directed by Gabriele M Bussetti, has won the Audience Award at Awareness Film Festival 2025. The short film, which explores the lived experience of Parkinson's disease, was voted audience favorite across the festival slate.
"Winning the Audience Award at Awareness Film Festival is deeply meaningful," said Gabriele M Bussetti. "'Not By Choice' looks at the struggle and resilience that persist through adversity. Knowing the film connected so strongly with audiences validates our team's commitment to stories that matter. This recognition belongs to everyone who faces this condition every day."
"Not By Choice" follows Claire, a woman who must confront the unpredictable symptoms of Parkinson's disease on the day before an important audition, testing her resilience and determination.
The film stars Eve Alas Morán — who co-wrote the screenplay — alongside Chad Anderson.
Shot on location in Los Angeles, the film was photographed by Abhinav Joshi (who also served as colorist), with production design by Uyen Tran, original music by Lusha Li, and First Assistant Director Miranda Zhao. Producers are Eve Alas Morán and Francis Wang; Executive Producers Walter Alas Ruíz and Evelin Morán de Alas. Editors are Gabriele M Bussetti and Eve Alas Morán.
The soundtrack features the original song "You" (written by Eve Alas Morán, Ana Sofia Alas Morán, and Efraín Alas Morán; composed by Walter Alas Ruíz; performed by Eve Alas Morán; produced by Tito Martinez) and an arrangement of J.S. Bach: Adagio (BWV 974, after A. Marcello) by Lusha Li.
Dedicated to films that raise consciousness around social and health issues, Awareness Film Festival showcases global works that use cinema to ignite dialogue and change.
"This award reflects what we set out to do—spark meaningful conversation about this condition through storytelling," added Bussetti. "We hope 'Not By Choice' brings visibility to the millions living with this condition and to their families."
"Telling Claire's story authentically was paramount," said Eve Alas Morán. "This recognition from audiences means we succeeded in honoring the experiences of those living with Parkinson's disease and their loved ones."
BGM Film is currently exploring distribution opportunities and additional festival submissions for "Not By Choice."
Runtime: 13 minutes 29 seconds
Format: 4K | 2.39:1
Country: USA
Press Contact
For interviews with Gabriele M Bussetti or Eve Alas Morán, or to request screening access:
About "Not By Choice" (2025, Short Film)
A poignant drama following Claire as she confronts the daily realities of Parkinson's disease while navigating love, identity, and resilience.
Key Credits:
Written for the Screen by:
Gabriele M Bussetti & Eve Alas Morán
Directed by:
Gabriele M Bussetti
Produced by:
Eve Alas Morán and Francis Wang
Executive Producers:
Walter Alas Ruiz & Evelin Morán de Alas
Director of Photography/Colorist:
Abhinav Joshi
Production Designer:
Uyen Tran
Editors:
Gabriele M Bussetti & Eve Alas Morán
Music:
Lusha Li
First Assistant Director:
Miranda Zhao
Cast:
Eve Alas Morán (Claire)
Chad Anderson (Lucas)
Production: BGM Film
Produced at: New York Film Academy
Filmed in: Los Angeles, California
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