By : Sherri Determan
The 8th Annual Independent Shorts Awards International Film Festival took place Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Regal LA LIVE in downtown Los Angeles. Bringing together 71 films from 27 countries for a full day devoted to independent short-form cinema and creators, this event was an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance. The 8th Annual Independent Shorts Awards is presented by FilmVault, the festival’s Official DCP and Prize Partner.
Presented across 11 screening blocks in three auditoriums, the program includes 28 films and 8 world premieres. Screenings ran from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, followed by the award ceremony, an industry panel, cocktail reception, red carpet photo call and press interviews.
One movie that stood out amongst the others was Andre Dixon’s KINFOLK. Set in the 1970s, the Southern Gothic horror anthology pilot received dozens of international festival awards and nominations, including multiple Best Director wins. The film walked away with 7 wins for the night.
ABOUT INDEPENDENT SHORTS AWARDS
Independent Shorts Awards is a Los Angeles-based international film festival and live event series dedicated to discovering, recognizing and presenting independent short-form filmmaking from around the world. Through monthly competitions, curated screenings, filmmaker activities and its Annual Awards, the festival creates opportunities for established and emerging filmmakers to have their work evaluated, celebrated and experienced by live audiences.
I had the pleasure of chatting with a few of the winners, directors and actors who participated in the 2026 Independent Short Film Awards. Check them out below.
