Awards & Prizes
Main Competition Prizes
Outstanding films will be recognized in our main competition categories
The top honor at HISFF 2025, awarded to the film that demonstrates exceptional storytelling, technical excellence, and creative vision.
Awarded to a film that demonstrates remarkable achievement in filmmaking and storytelling.
Recognizing a film with outstanding creative elements and compelling narrative.
Special Recognition Awards
Additional awards celebrating specific achievements in filmmaking
Prize for Promising Endeavor
Awarded to a filmmaker showing exceptional promise and potential for future excellence.
Special MentionPrize for Promising Endeavor
Recognizing another outstanding emerging talent in the film industry.
Special MentionFestival people Special Mention Prize
Awarded by the festival people to a film that demonstrates unique artistic vision or technical innovation.
Special MentionFestival people Special Mention Prize
Recognizing exceptional work in a specific aspect of filmmaking as selected by the festival people.
Special MentionAll Special Mention Awardees Receive
Citation of Special Mention and Certificates of Merit
Judging Criteria
Our esteemed festival people evaluates films based on the following criteria
Originality & Creativity
Innovative storytelling, unique perspective, and creative approach to the subject matter.
Technical Merit
Adaptability of techniques to strengthen the narratives.
Art of Storytelling
Engaging narratives that captivate audiences.
Emotional Impact
Resonance with viewers' feelings and experiences.
Awards Timeline
Here’s how our film selection and award process works — step by step
Opening Date
October 20, 2025
This is the day when we start accepting short film submissions for the festival.
Regular Deadline
November 20, 2025
Make sure to send your film before this date to be part of the competition.
Notification Date
December 5, 2025
We will inform all filmmakers about the selection results on this date.
Event Date
December 19 – 21, 2025
The big days! The festival will take place and awards will be presented to the winners.
Ready to Showcase Your Film?
Submit your short film for a chance to win these prestigious awards and gain recognition in the film industry.