Exclusive: TFI Awards Candescent Film Award to ‘The Yes Men Are Revolting’

The Tribeca Film Institute and Candescent Films have announced that “The Yes Men Are Revolting,” directed by Laura Nix and the Yes Men, is the recipient of the second annual Candescent Film Award. The Yes Men is a two-person team of activists who impersonate corporate entities they disagree with to call attention to social issues. Theirs is a practice built around the idea that a lie can expose the truth. This documentary isn’t the first one about the group, but it follows them through a somewhat troubled period — covering rifts forming in the organization.

“The documentary highlights the ongoing climate change crisis in a humorous, accessible and informative way. The activist spirit of the film is unique and motivational,” said Lilly Hartley, founder of Candescent Films, in a statement.

The award is part of a multi-year program with Candescent Films that aims to support social issues documentaries at various stages.

In addition to “Yes Men,” TFI has funded the film’s digital counterpart, “Action Switchboard” as one of its selected 2013 New Media Fund grantees.

Below is the teaser trailer for “The Yes Men Are Revolting,” which shows off the Yes Men’s unique blend of political activism with slapstick trolling in the vein of Jimmy Kimmel. Check it out:

READ MORE: Toronto Review: ‘The Yes Men Are Revolting’ Puts Activism in a Personal Light