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Prizes

Free to enter, the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards elevates the original voices that bring a fresh perspective to storytelling. The shortlisted filmmakers are flown to Los Angeles for an exclusive four-day event to gain unparalleled insight into all aspects of the filmmaking process to advance their careers. After a black-tie awards ceremony at the Cary Grant Theatre, the 30 successful filmmakers benefit from a four-day workshop program. Aimed at breakthrough artists and independent filmmakers worldwide, there are six categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Environment, Animation, Student and Future Format. 

Each category awards a winner and a shortlist of up to five.

 

 

Category Winners Shortlist
Flight to Los Angeles and accommodation* x x
Ceremony attendance x x
Four-day workshop program at Sony Pictures Studios** x x
Camera plus lens*** x
Certificate x
Trophy x
Cash prizes**** x

*Includes flights and accommodation for the shortlisted filmmaker. Should the filmmaker have worked with a cinematographer / director on the selected film, and that individual be credited accordingly, they may also attend the four-day program, but their associated costs (including flight and accommodation) must be covered at their own expense.

**Topics covered in workshops will include: casting, physical production, animation, legal, CGI, innovation at Sony, pitching process, sound and music mixing, post-production, talent agencies, TV and studio tours.

***Student category winner and institution each receive Sony camera equipment. 

****Fiction, Non-Fiction, Environment and Animation category winners also receive a $5,000 (USD) cash prize. Future Format category winner receives a $2,500 (USD) cash prize. 

If you’re shortlisted

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All shortlisted filmmakers will need to submit a high-resolution file for screening and distribution purposes with the following specifications:

  • A high-resolution version with a minimum resolution of 1080 pixels ProRes HQ MOV and a minimum of 24 frames per second

  • Your audio mix and stems as separate files

  • Clean versions of your film and separate SRT files containing English subtitles

  • Separated graphics

  • A 30 to 60-second trailer of your film

  • If your film is shortlisted, you agree clips from your films will be used during the Awards night and for PR and marketing purposes

  • You’ll also be asked to submit 3 to 5 high-res stills, a film poster, your portrait (all images will need to be 300ppi at 3508 pixels on the longest side). Additionally you’ll need to provide a synopsis, a biography plus a list of cast and crew

Now open for entries! 

Submit your short film to the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards 2025

2025 competition open