Laura Mora Ortega, a highly acclaimed Colombian film director and screenwriter, hailed from the vibrant city of Medellín, Colombia, in the year 1981.
Mora's odyssey in the realm of cinematic storytelling commenced with her academic tenure at the prestigious German School in Medellín, where she successfully completed her high school studies, laying the foundation for her future endeavors in the world of film.
Subsequently, she embarked upon a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, opting to pursue her ardent passion for film production and direction at the renowned RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia, a hub for creative innovation and artistic expression.
Matar a Jesús, the debut feature film of Mora, made its theatrical debut in Colombia in the year 2017, marking a significant milestone in the filmmaker's career. The film's outstanding performance did not go unnoticed, as it garnered a plethora of accolades and awards from esteemed film festivals and institutions. Notably, it received the EGEDA Award at the prestigious Cartagena Film Festival, solidifying its reputation as a standout in the industry. Additionally, the film took home the Jury Prize for Best First Film and the Casa de las Américas Award at the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema in Havana, further cementing its status as a critically acclaimed work. Furthermore, Matar a Jesús earned the Eroski Youth Award at the San Sebastian Film Festival, a testament to its appeal and impact on a younger audience. Finally, the film received the prestigious Roger Ebert Award at the Chicago Film Festival, a nod to its exceptional storytelling, direction, and overall quality.
