The recently-wrapped Brussels International Film Festival has been stripped of its approved status, by the Paris-based International Federation of Film Producers' Associations (FIAPF).

FIAPF said that the Brussels IFF, which specialises in films from the European Union, had lost its accredited status as a result of its use of cassette screenings. FIAPF suggested that this may require additional clearance from film producers. 'And we would also prefer to see our members' films given the big screen treatment they deserve,' said a FIAPF spokesperson.

FIAPF takes into account festivals' producer friendliness as well as

the number and type of competitive sections, before awarding accreditation. Its accreditation gives rise to the labels 'A-list' and 'B-list' festivals, although these are terms that FIAPF itself does not use.

The Brussels IFF in its 27th edition last week, awarded its Golden Iris to Benito Zambrano's directorial debut Alone (Solas). The film also picked up a Silver Iris for Ana Fernandez as best actress. The prize includes euro80,000 worth of funds towards the film's promotion and distribution.

Meanwhile the UK's Human Traffic, directed by Justin Kerrigan, was awarded the special jury prize at Brussels. Best actor honours went to Germany's Goetz George for Roland Suso Richter's After The Truth (Nichts Als Die Wahrheit). Gabriele Muccino's But Forever In My Mind (Come Te Nessuno Mai) from Italy won best screenplay.