Amat Escalante’s latest project continues to impress international audiences…

The 34-year-old Mexican director’s drug drama Heli was named the winner of the Arri/Osram best international film award at this year’s Munich International Film Festival.

Heli, an independent Mexican crime drama released in May, tells the story of the titular protagonist (portrayed by Armando Espitia), a 17-year-old boy living with his wife (Linda González) and his sister, Estela (Adrea Vergara).

The film follows the arcs of these characters and Estela’s boyfriend (Juan Eduardo Palacios) as they struggle with drugs, violence, and corruption.

It’s the latest award for the Escalante, who was named best director at the Cannes Film Festival for his exceptional work on Heli.

Meanwhile, his fellow countryman Sebastian Hofmann won the CineVision prize for his debut, the horror tale Halley.

The drama/horror film tells the story of Alberto, who forms an unusual friendship with Luly, the manager of the 24-hour gym where he works as a night guard.