Today, we’re thrilled to announce 30 filmmakers chosen from over 11,750 films submitted across 158 countries and territories. This year, filmmakers were invited to enter their shorts into four categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Animation and Student.
The 2025 shortlist offers a fascinating insight into international filmmaking and the techniques and topics currently being explored by emerging filmmakers. From a poignant tale of Chilean shellfish divers searching for answers about a missing relative under Pinochet’s regime to an animated fable of a piglet and a wolf forging an unlikely friendship, we're delighted to share a diverse array of impressive films.
The shortlist will soon be flown to Los Angeles to attend a four-day workshop program at the historic Sony Pictures Studios, Culver City, which acts as a stepping stone for up-and-coming talent. Led by Sony Pictures executives, these workshops pull back the curtain on the film industry's inner workings while opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
The exciting week culminates in a red carpet Awards ceremony held at the Sony Pictures Studios during which the four category winners will be announced. Fiction, Non-Fiction and Animation category winners receive Sony Digital Imaging equipment ideal for filmmakers and $5,000 (USD) cash prize. The Student winner and institution each receive Sony camera equipment.
Also announced today was the winner and shortlist of Future Format, a competition celebrating short films shot on smartphones. Congratulations to Bijan Gashti (Islamic Republic of Iran) for Select/Or - who wins Sony Digital Imaging equipment and is invited to join the shortlist in Los Angeles.
Stay tuned to our social media for upcoming highlights and exciting on-site updates.