INDIANAPOLIS — The 2026 Indy Shorts Film Festival (Indy Shorts) concluded on Sunday, July 26, with a record number of filmmakers in attendance (350), World Premieres (37) and short film programs (40). The Indy Shorts presented over $35,000 in cash prizes to filmmakers at the Awards Brunch on Saturday, July 25. The three Grand Prize-winning films, U.S. Premiere “La barrière” by Christophe Deram (France), “Stalin Boys” by Bianca Giaever and Ora DeKornfeld (United States) and “9 Million Colors” by Bára Anna Stejskalová (Czech Republic, Norway, Germany), received their qualification for the 2027 Academy Awards in their respective categories as well as $5,000 in cash prizes.
There were 21 films with Hoosier connections showcased in three Indiana Spotlight programs. The Indiana Spotlight Narrative Award and a $1,000 cash prize were presented to director Bella Ray Rosales for the film, “Lottie Baby.” The Hoodox Indiana Spotlight Documentary Award and a $1,000 cash prize were awarded to director Jason Whalen for the film, “Finding A Way: Revitalizing Nature in America’s Heartland.” The Indiana Spotlight Narrative Audience Choice Award and a $500 cash prize went to “SUCKS TO SUCK,” directed by Sonny DeSanto and Ian Corbin. The Indiana Spotlight Documentary Audience Choice Award and a $500 cash prize was awarded to “Sylvia,” directed by Ashton Gleckman.