American Black fest honors 'Pico'

Ernst Gossner's film wins Grand Jury Prize

By BYRON PERRY

"South of Pico," from firsttime director Ernst Gossner, has won the 11th annual American Black Film Festival's Grand Jury Prize for best picture.

"Pico" star Henry Simmons also won the fest's actor award for his perf in the pic.

Pic tells the story of four people whose lives intertwine after witnessing the same car accident.

Gossner was also presented with fest sponsor Heineken's Red Star Award, which aims to recognize originality, innovation and vision in film.