NEW DELHI: Renowned director Mary Lambert has been honoured with a Cinematic Environmentalist Award at the 12th Annual Malibu International Film Festival during its Opening Night directly after the screening of her documentary Miss South Pacific: Beauty and the Sea.

The film not only follows the 2009-2010 Miss South Pacific Pageant, but also tells the story of various Pacific Island countries and how they have been affected by climate change.

While Lambert first gained attention as a director in the music video world, she is best known for her work in features (Pet Sematary, Pet Sematary 2, Siesta) and has directed a wide range of television projects for major networks.

Lambert accepted in hopes of spreading her film‘s message - one that, according to Lambert, needs to be heard.

Fellow environmental activists and personal friends Pierce and Keely Brosnan presented the Award.

Miss South Pacific kicked off the Opening Night of the Festival with a screening at Malibu Cinemas. After the presentation of Lambert‘s Award, the evening continued with an introduction by Pierce Brosnan for the romantic comedy feature Kissing Strangers directed by David Katz (Film and Television Producer, Malibu Film Festival Founder).

The Opening Night Films were sponsored by Keely Brosnan, Pierce Brosnan, Kym Gold, Babakul, Dianne Burnett, the Joan Valentine Foundation, Kanner Sisters Productions, and Marty Katz Productions.