The 815HORTS Film Festival moves film forward by curating screening experiences and interactive programs that transcend time and place. Established in 2022, 815HORTS (pronounced 815 shorts) brings film enthusiasts together for screenings, filmmaker interviews and Q&As, educational content and panels, entertainment and networking, and meet and greet opportunities with industry practitioners. As one of the Midwest's fastest growing film fests, the trajectory of 815HORTS is shaped by its goal of becoming an Oscar-qualifying film festival.
Since its inception, 815HORTS has prioritized local, regional and global partnerships to help create a world-class experience for attendees of all ages and expertise. Our event partners include the Sundance Film Festival's Short Film Tour, Tribeca Festival, the Illinois Film Office, Rockford Film Office and City of Rockford, among others. 815HORTS is also the state of Illinois's partner festival for the annual Illinois Film Office Shortcuts Student Filmmaking Contest, solidifying 815HORTS as a premier platform for aspiring young Illinois filmmakers.
815HORTS is produced by Plus Seven Company (P7c), a boutique experience firm that delivers winning sports and entertainment. Through its properties and services divisions, P7c’s expertise covers events, branding, nonprofits, partnerships, public and media relations, and tourism. For more information, visit PlusSevenCompany.com and 815HORTS.com.
FIFTH ANNUAL 815HORTS, FRI.-SAT., NOV. 13-14, 2026
Details + Schedule: To be announced!
Partnerships + Inquiries: Contact Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com
2025 815HORTS PARTNERS
Academy: City of Rockford
Champion: Illinois Film Office, Rockford Area Arts Council
Friend: Ron Clewer, Comcast/Xfinity, Don Hatton
In-Kind: Rockford Film Office, District Bar & Grill
Nonprofit: Founders Commission
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council, which receives support from the City of Rockford, the Illinois Arts Council Agency, and its members.
Each year, The 5HORT Awards close out the festival. Categories include Best Animated Short, Best Documentary Short, Best Live Action Short, Best Illinois Film Office Shortcuts Short, and Best 5HORT (Best in Show).
THE 5HORT AWARDS - 2025 WINNERS
- Best 5HORT (Best in Show) - Hearts of Stone
- Best Animated Short - Stay
- Best Documentary Short - Silicon Prairie Dreams
- Best Live Action Short - Hearts of Stone
- Illinois Film Office Shortcuts Student Contest Co-Winners - Moshe's Song (Prelude) and Rolling Towards Perfection