James Augustus Lee Named 'Best Actor' by 2017 Chelsea Film Festival For Role in I WAS THERE

Exposing the rather raw subject of survivor's guilt, actor James Augustus Lee has taken home the prestigious award for 'Best Actor' for his latest role as a New York City first responder in Jorge Valdés-Iga's I Was There, at the 2017 Chelsea Film Festival. The 9/11 inspired feature film, written by Valdés-Iga and co-written by Lee and Sinead Daly, has earned much acclaim from critics and fans during its lengthy run on the film festival circuit over the last year.

I Was There tells the heart-wrenching and emotionally gripping story of Gus (played by Lee), a New York City firefighter struggling to cope with the very real mental condition that occurs following a traumatic event when one person survives, while others perish.

The film, which also stars Carl Ford and Sebastian Zurita, has received hefty praise for its honest and raw depiction of those struggling to survive amidst the catastrophic 9/11 attacks and the chaos that ensued. In addition to its recent 'Best Actor' award, I Was There was also the 'Official Selection' at the Rhode Island International Film Festival last year, and enjoyed successful screenings as part of the Fiuggi International Film Festival in Italy, where it celebrated its Worldwide Premiere, as well as the 2016 Downtown Film Festival in Los Angeles and the NYC Independent Film Festival.

Says Lee, "I want to thank the cast and crew for the most amazing artistic journey in the true spirit of independent filmmaking. It will live with me forever. A thank you also goes to Jorge Valdés-Iga for his courage and amazing ability to make this film happen. And a special thanks to Bruce Springsteen for his constant inspiration, especially his song 'My City Of Ruins,' which inspired me to write this story." Says Valdés-Iga, "I'm very happy to see James' talent and hard work recognized all over the festival circuit and now with this award at the Chelsea Film Festival."

The Chelsea Film Festival is a preeminent international film festival focusing on exploring independent works of emerging filmmakers, producers and actors. For more information on the film, visit www.iwastherefilm.com.

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