Filmmaker Robert Griffith of Moon recently received a 2021 Humanitarian Award of Distinction from the IndieFEST Film Awards for his documentary “The Judge—Character, Cases, Courage.”

The Humanitarian Award is conferred on films that bring awareness to issues of ecological, political, social justice and equality, health and wellness, animals, wildlife, conservation and spiritual importance, according to the IndieFEST website. In addition, it says that the chosen films “change attitudes and beliefs, heighten sensitivity, and bring about individual and social change.”

“The Judge” tells the story of Judge Robert R. Merhige, who navigated some of the most significant legal and social issues of the late 20th century from his seat on the bench of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Richmond.

Griffith’s documentary was one of 38 films recognized globally by IndieFEST, including grand prize winner “Milked” by Amy Taylor and Chris Huriwai of New Zealand. The...