Established in 2018, the Indy Shorts International Film Festival is an annual six-day summer event in Indianapolis, Indiana, dedicated to showcasing the art of short films. Initially an offshoot of the Heartland International Film Festival, Indy Shorts has evolved into a standalone celebration, presenting films across various genres, including horror, comedy, documentary, narrative, and animation.
Recognized as one of the “Top 20 Best Short Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2022, the festival has earned a prestigious status as an Academy Award®-qualifying event in all three short film categories: Live Action, Documentary, and Animation. This distinction allows Grand Prize winners to qualify for Oscar consideration.
Each year, Indy Shorts features over 150 short films from around the world, complemented by filmmaker Q&A sessions, community events, and partnerships with local organizations. The festival’s mission is to curate and celebrate thoughtful films that engage diverse audiences, fostering cultural enrichment in Indianapolis and beyond.
Indy Shorts has quickly established itself as a premier destination for short films, fostering talent and promoting impactful storytelling.
Indy Shorts is an Oscar-qualifying festival, with Grand Prize winners in Narrative, Documentary, and Animated Short categories earning eligibility for Academy Award® consideration. In 2023, winners included:
These accolades position Indy Shorts as a vital stepping stone for filmmakers aiming for the Academy Awards®.
The festival highlights innovative creators through awards like the Pioneering Spirit Award, presented in 2023 to Academy Award®-winning director Ben Proudfoot for his short documentary Forgiving Johnny. Indy Shorts also underscores societal issues through the Richard D. Propes Social Impact Award, which in 2023 went to The Deciding Vote by Jeremy Workman and Robert Lyons.
Indy Shorts continues to gain international attention, being named one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2023. Its dynamic programming and vibrant community engagement have solidified its status as a leading platform for short-form storytelling.
The Indy Shorts International Film Festival champions emerging filmmakers and thought-provoking cinema, fostering a community where impactful short films thrive.
To learn more, please visit the festival website or SAVE THIS PAGE or ADD NOTES.
