solstice awards

The Solstice Awards is a premier celebration of independent cinema, honoring the boldest up and coming voices working outside the traditional studio system. Created to elevate and spotlight the artistry, risk-taking, and cultural impact of independent film, the Solstice Awards champions filmmakers who shape the future of storytelling through originality, authenticity, and craft.

PARTNERS

Awards & Recognitions

  • Awarded to the most outstanding feature of the year

  • Recognizes the top short film of the year, across all genres.

  • Recognizes exceptional vision and direction in a feature film.

  • Honors exceptional direction in a short film.

  • Honors the most compelling and original feature film script.

  • Awarded for the best script in a short format.

  • Awarded for an outstanding leading performance by a male-identifying actor.

  • Awarded for an outstanding leading performance by a female-identifying actor.

  • Recognizes an exceptional supporting role in a feature film.

  • Recognizes a standout acting performance in a short film.

  • Honors excellence in visual storytelling and camera work.

  • Honors striking visual work in a short.

  • Awarded for skillful and impactful film editing.

  • Recognizes excellence in pacing and structure in a short film.

  • Recognizes an original musical score that elevates the film’s story and emotion.

  • Honors outstanding set, location, and visual world-building.

  • Recognizes an emerging filmmaker with a unique voice and strong potential.

  • Celebrates bold, innovative, or genre-defying storytelling.

  • Awarded to a film that tackles meaningful social or cultural themes.

  • The jury’s highest honor, given to the most outstanding film overall.

THE JURY

  • ALEXANDRA HANNIBAL

    SENIOR CREATIVE EXECUTIVE, A24

  • DAVID RAPAPORT

    CASTING DIRECTOR, NETFLIX

  • DANA HARRIS BRIDSON

    EDITOR IN CHEIF, INDIEWIRE

  • HOYTE VAN HOYTEMA

    AWARD WINNING CINEMATOGRAPHER, TENET

  • JANG YOUNG-HWAN

    OSCAR WINNING PRODUCER, PARASITE

  • AARON SORKIN

    AWARD WINNING SCREENWRITER, THE SOCIAL NETWORK

THE SOLSTICE AWARDS

FEBRUARY 6, 2026

DOLBY THEATRE

6801 HOLLYWOOD BLVD

HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028