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Best Short Film

Selected by the official jury based on the 12-criterion scoring rubric.

Cash Award

₹25,000

Award Includes

Trophy + Official Citation

Jury Scoring Rubric (100 Marks)

Comprehensive Criterion Breakdown
01.

Concept / Premise

Strength, clarity, and depth of the core premise.

10Max Marks
02.

Originality

Freshness of perspective and unique cinematic voice.

10Max Marks
03.

Screenplay / Structure

Dialogue, scene transitions, and narrative economy.

15Max Marks
04.

Direction

Directorial vision, control of tone, and execution.

15Max Marks
05.

Characterization & Performances

Authenticity, emotional nuance, casting, and acting.

10Max Marks
06.

Cinematography / Visual Language

Framing, lighting, camera movement, and visual mood.

10Max Marks
07.

Editing / Pacing

Rhythm, temporal flow, and dramatic cuts.

10Max Marks
08.

Sound Design / Sound Recording

Atmosphere, dialogue clarity, foley, and sound mixing.

8Max Marks
09.

Production Design / Locations / Costume

Sets, location realism, props, and costume design.

4Max Marks
10.

Music / Background Score

Original composition, atmosphere, and emotional integration.

3Max Marks
11.

Thematic Depth / Social Insight

Social resonance, philosophical depth, and human insight.

5Max Marks
12.

Emotional / Intellectual Impact

Lasting impression, cinematic punch, and memorability.

10Max Marks

Previous Winners

Season 02 (2025)

Kanam

Director: Mridul S
DoP: Anil Babu
Kanam winning Best Film
Kanam team at the festival
Season 01 (2024)

The Show

Director: Waseem Ameer
Waseem Ameer with the award
The Show poster

Submit for Season 03

Films completed between Sep 2023 and Aug 2026. Runtime under 30 minutes.

Submit Film →