The Breadwinner wins Best Independent Animated Feature at the Annie Awards

Cartoon Saloon's film The Breadwinner has made history winning the Best Independent Animated Feature Film at the Annie Awards in Los Angeles.

It is the first time that a solo female director has won in this category.

"On behalf of all those who gave their experience, skill and talent to this film, I am absolutely thrilled. At a time when women’s voices are coming to the forefront, the story of a young girl using her voice for what she believes in is more relevant than ever. Recognizing stories like Parvana’s helps point to the importance of women and girls being heard around the world," said Director Nora Twomey.

The Breadwinner is an animated feature film that tells the story of Parvana, a 12-year-old girl who gives up everything to provide for her family and reunite with her father.

Based on Deborah Eilis's novel, the film spans the autumn of 2001 in Kabul, Afghanistan just as the Taliban regime began to fall. The book has been published in more than 40 editions and translated into many languages.

The film was named Best Animated Feature by The Los Angeles Film Critics Association. It also received a Golden Globe nomination.

The Breadwinner will premiere in Ireland as part of the Dublin International Film Festival on February 22.

The film is nominated for an Oscar next month.