Welcome to the New York Indie ShortFest, where creativity knows no bounds! As a premier online destination for short films, our seasonal festival celebrates the vibrant world of independent cinema. Dive into a dynamic showcase of compelling storytelling, innovative perspectives, and raw talent from emerging filmmakers. Join us in discovering the next generation of cinematic visionaries as we shine a spotlight on the diversity and ingenuity of indie filmmaking. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of the New York Indie ShortFest, where every film has a voice and every story matters."

Awards & Prizes

Best Short Film:
This category recognizes overall excellence in storytelling, cinematography, direction, and production values in a short film across all genres.

-Best Documentary Short:
This category honors exceptional non-fiction storytelling, highlighting topics ranging from social issues to historical events, with a focus on factual accuracy and impactful storytelling.

-Best Sci-Fi Short:
This category celebrates imaginative and thought-provoking science fiction films that explore futuristic concepts, technological advancements, and the human condition in the context of the speculative future.

-Best Horror Short:
This category acknowledges outstanding horror films that evoke fear, suspense, and tension through masterful storytelling, atmospheric cinematography, and effective use of horror elements.

-Best LGBT Short:
This category recognizes films that authentically depict the LGBTQ+ experience, addressing themes such as identity, love, acceptance, and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community with sensitivity and depth.

-Best Animated Short:
This category celebrates excellence in animation, recognizing innovative storytelling, visual creativity, and technical mastery in animated short films, whether traditional or computer-generated.

-Best Experimental Short:
This category honors boundary-pushing and unconventional films that defy traditional storytelling norms, experimenting with form, structure, and narrative to create unique cinematic experiences.

-Best Comedy Short:
This category highlights films that excel in humor and comedic storytelling, showcasing wit, satire, and comedic timing to entertain and engage audiences.

-Best Drama Short:
This category recognizes emotionally resonant and character-driven films that explore themes of human relationships, personal growth, and societal issues with depth and authenticity.

-Best International Short: This category celebrates outstanding short films from around the world, recognizing cultural diversity, global perspectives, and artistic innovation in filmmaking.

* These categories provide a comprehensive framework for recognizing excellence across various genres and themes, ensuring that diverse voices and creative visions are celebrated at the festival.

Rules & Terms

Term & Rules

Eligibility:
Submissions must be short films with a maximum duration of 40 mins. Only independent productions will be considered for selection.

Submission Process:
Filmmakers must submit their entries through FilmFreeway platform within the specified submission period. Each submission should include all required materials and information as outlined in the submission guidelines.

Genres:
The festival accepts short films across a wide range of genres, including but not limited to drama, comedy, animation, documentary, experimental, and more.

Originality:
Submissions must be original works created by the filmmaker(s), and should not infringe upon any copyrights or intellectual property rights of third parties.

Language and Subtitles:
Films in languages other than English must be subtitled in English for consideration.

Screening Format:
Accepted films must be provided in the required screening format as specified by the festival organizers.

Selection Process:
All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of industry professionals, and selections for the festival program will be based on artistic merit, originality, storytelling, and technical proficiency.

Notification:
Filmmakers will be notified of the status of their submissions via email within the designated timeframe.

Screening Rights:
By submitting their films, filmmakers grant the festival the right to screen their work during the event, both online and at any physical screenings organized by the festival.

Awards and Prizes:
The festival may present awards in various categories, as determined by the festival organizers. Details regarding awards and prizes will be announced prior to the festival.

Publicity and Promotion:
Filmmakers grant the festival the right to use excerpts from their films, as well as promotional materials, for marketing and publicity purposes related to the festival.

Compliance:
Filmmakers are responsible for ensuring that their submissions comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Final Interpretation:
The festival organizers reserve the right to interpret and enforce these regulations at their discretion. These regulations are subject to change, and filmmakers are advised to review the official festival guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

15 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Shannon Denise Evans

    I was pleased to have my short film ALL CATS ARE GREY IN THE DARK selected as a Semifinalist at the New York Indie ShortFest. The festival does a great job of celebrating the diversity and creativity of independent short filmmaking, and I appreciate the platform it provides for emerging voices. The submission process was smooth and the category offerings are well thought out, covering a wide range of genres. A worthwhile festival for indie filmmakers looking to get their work seen.

    February 2026
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  • Lori Cassels

    It was an honor for The Tap Dancing Christmas Trees-3 Generations on Parade be selected a semi-finalists at New York Indie ShortFest. The first documentary by Students on the Set, where Alameda HS students learn to make films is quite a thrill.

    February 2026
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  • Pepi ROMAGNOLI

    Many thanks to New York Indie Short Fest for the prestigious award for Courtyard windows.

    December 2025
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  • Mimi Garrard

    We are honored to be in invited to your festival.

    Mimi Garrard

    November 2025
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  • Linda Stuart

    MY FILM WAS "SELECTED," BUT THE FESTIVAL EVENT DATE OF NOV. 25 HAS PASSED. THE LAST TIME A FILMMAKER PUBLICLY CONTACTED THE FESTIVAL ON FILMFREEWAY WAS IN AUGUST.☹️

    November 2025
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