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AUSTIN SPOTLIGHT FILM FEST
2026 AWARDS

AUSTIN SPOTLIGHT
2026 NOMINATIONS

Austin Spotlight 2026 Nominations

The spotlight is on the storytellers. Austin Spotlight Film Festival is proud to present the 2026 Award Nominees, celebrating an incredible group of independent filmmakers, screenwriters, performers, and creative voices from across our festival lineup. From bold narratives and laugh-out-loud comedies to horror, documentaries, micro-shorts, performances, and original concepts, these nominees represent the creativity and independent spirit at the heart of Austin Spotlight.

Join us September 12, 2026 at Southwest Theater as we celebrate the nominees, connect with the filmmakers, and reveal this year’s winners at the Austin Spotlight Film Festival Awards Ceremony.

10 years of putting the spotlight on indie storytellers. Lights. Camera. Austin.

AWARDS & TROPHIES

Austin Spotlight Film Fest

Audience Choice Trophy

Your story made a profound impact, resonating with viewers and leaving a lasting impression. This lightbulb trophy represents the connection your film created with our audience.

Best Short Screenplay Trophy

For those who have mastered the art of concise storytelling, this trophy celebrates your ability to craft a compelling narrative in a shorter format. Your creativity and skill are showcased through this unique lightbulb award.

Judge's Choice Trophy

Recognized by industry experts, this trophy shines a spotlight on your excellence in filmmaking. It’s a testament to your exceptional storytelling and craftsmanship, earning the admiration of our esteemed panel of judges.

Best Feature Screenplay Trophy

This trophy honors the brilliance of long-form storytelling, recognizing your talent for weaving an engaging, full-length narrative. It’s a symbol of your dedication to the craft and your ability to keep audiences captivated.

All Spotlight Awards

There's more! Our festival goes beyond the expected, presenting a dazzling array of awards in various categories. Winners receive certificates for these prestigious honors:

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  • Best Screenplay (Feature & Short): Celebrating outstanding storytelling across different formats.

  • Best Narrative (Film & Screenplay): Recognizing the most engaging and well-crafted narratives.

  • Best Comedy (Film & Screenplay): For those who brought laughter and joy to our festival.

  • Best Horror (Film & Screenplay): Honoring the films and scripts that delivered the most thrilling scares.

  • Best Student Short: Celebrating emerging talent from the next generation of filmmakers.

  • Best Music Video: Awarding creativity in combining music and visuals.

  • Best Animation: Recognizing excellence in animated storytelling and artistry.

  • Best Arthouse: For the films that challenged conventions and showcased unique artistic expression.

  • Best Documentary: Honoring non-fiction storytelling that informs, inspires, or moves audiences.

  • Best Micro-Short: Recognizing exceptional storytelling in a brief format.

  • Best Trailer: An electrifying preview that masterfully teases the essence of the film.

  • Best Director: Celebrating the visionary talent behind the camera.

  • Best Ensemble: For the cast that worked seamlessly to bring a story to life.

  • Best Actor & Best Actress: Honoring outstanding performances that made characters unforgettable.

  • Most Original Concept: Celebrating films that stood out with unique, innovative ideas.

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Shine Bright!

The Austin Spotlight Film Fest is your platform to showcase your talent, make lasting connections, and celebrate the magic of cinema with a global community of filmmakers and storytellers. Whether you take home a Lightbulb trophy or a certificate, every award signifies your brilliance and dedication to the art of filmmaking.

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