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.
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Awards & Recognitions
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Awarded to the most outstanding feature of the year
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Recognizes the top short film of the year, across all genres.
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Recognizes exceptional vision and direction in a feature film.
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Honors exceptional direction in a short film.
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Honors the most compelling and original feature film script.
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Awarded for the best script in a short format.
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Awarded for an outstanding leading performance by a male-identifying actor.
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Awarded for an outstanding leading performance by a female-identifying actor.
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Recognizes an exceptional supporting role in a feature film.
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Recognizes a standout acting performance in a short film.
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Honors excellence in visual storytelling and camera work.
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Honors striking visual work in a short.
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Awarded for skillful and impactful film editing.
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Recognizes excellence in pacing and structure in a short film.
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Recognizes an original musical score that elevates the film’s story and emotion.
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Honors outstanding set, location, and visual world-building.
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Recognizes an emerging filmmaker with a unique voice and strong potential.
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Celebrates bold, innovative, or genre-defying storytelling.
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Awarded to a film that tackles meaningful social or cultural themes.
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The jury’s highest honor, given to the most outstanding film overall.
THE JURY
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ALEXANDRA HANNIBAL
SENIOR CREATIVE EXECUTIVE, A24
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DAVID RAPAPORT
CASTING DIRECTOR, NETFLIX
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DANA HARRIS BRIDSON
EDITOR IN CHEIF, INDIEWIRE
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HOYTE VAN HOYTEMA
AWARD WINNING CINEMATOGRAPHER, TENET
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JANG YOUNG-HWAN
OSCAR WINNING PRODUCER, PARASITE
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AARON SORKIN
AWARD WINNING SCREENWRITER, THE SOCIAL NETWORK
THE SOLSTICE AWARDS
FEBRUARY 6, 2026
DOLBY THEATRE
6801 HOLLYWOOD BLVD
HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028