American Motion Pictures Festival (1)

This category features short-form fiction films that deliver compelling stories in concise and creative ways. Whether dramatic, comedic, romantic, suspenseful, or surreal, these films showcase strong storytelling, memorable characters, and cinematic vision—often within just a few minutes. We welcome narrative shorts from all genres that demonstrate originality, emotional impact, and directorial excellence.

This category highlights full-length fiction films that bring stories to life through compelling characters, dynamic plots, and bold artistic vision. From intimate dramas to sweeping epics, grounded realism to genre-bending fiction, these films showcase the breadth and depth of narrative cinema today. We welcome submissions from filmmakers who push boundaries, challenge norms, and offer fresh perspectives—whether through language, structure, or theme.

This category showcases powerful, full-length nonfiction films that explore truth, uncover stories, and provoke thought. From deeply personal journeys to bold investigations, these documentaries reflect a wide spectrum of real-world subjects—culture, history, politics, identity, the arts, and beyond. We celebrate filmmakers who use the documentary form to inform, inspire, challenge, and connect audiences through vivid storytelling, cinematic craft, and authenticity.

This category honors short-form nonfiction films that illuminate real stories, real people, and real perspectives. Spanning personal narratives, investigative reporting, cultural profiles, and social justice themes, these films reveal truth through powerful imagery, thoughtful editing, and authentic voice—all within a short format. Whether reflective or urgent, poetic or journalistic, these documentary shorts showcase the art of capturing reality with purpose and impact.

Experimental programming highlights avant-garde films that are driven by a re-consideration of the elements of cinema itself. These films often reject traditional narrative structure, redefine filmmaking tools, and seek to convey meaning through unconventional and often abstract applications of the film medium. Experimental films, as we see it, do not have the linear, conventional story structure found in narrative or documentary shorts. If your film does not heavily employ formal experimentation and non-narrative tools, it may not belong in this category.

A celebration of imagination in motion, this category showcases short films that use animation in all its forms—2D, 3D, stop-motion, mixed media, or experimental styles. Whether abstract or story-driven, whimsical or profound, these films explore the limitless possibilities of animated storytelling. From visual artistry to emotional depth, these shorts highlight the technical skill and creative vision of animation artists from around the world.

This category celebrates the power of storytelling in its most compact form. Open to all genres—narrative, documentary, experimental, or animation—these short films demonstrate creative impact, emotional resonance, and technical excellence in under 10 minutes. Whether it's a striking visual poem or a tightly woven plot, these films prove that big stories can come in small packages.

This award recognizes an outstanding performance by a lead female-identifying actor demonstrates exceptional emotional depth, authenticity, screen presence, and the ability to elevate the story through their craft in a short or feature-length film. Performances from all genres are considered, and nominations may include emerging talents as well as established professionals. The Best Actress winner is selected by our jury and honored as part of both monthly recognitions and the annual Grand Jury competition. ATTENTION: All submissions to this category require the name of the person you are registering to the category. You can send us the name with the cover letter.

This award recognizes an outstanding performance by a lead male-identifying actor demonstrates exceptional emotional depth, authenticity, screen presence, and the ability to elevate the story through their craft in a short or feature-length film. Performances from all genres are considered, and nominations may include emerging talents as well as established professionals. The Best Actor winner is selected by our jury and honored as part of both monthly recognitions and the annual Grand Jury competition. ATTENTION: All submissions to this category require the name of the person you are registering to the category. You can send us the name with the cover letter.

This esteemed award celebrates the singular architect behind a compelling cinematic work. It honors the director who exhibits profound artistic integrity, an acute understanding of narrative, and the remarkable ability to translate a vision from script to screen with exceptional precision and emotional resonance. The recipient of this award masterfully guides performances, shapes visual language, and orchestrates every element to create an unforgettable and impactful filmic experience. The Best Director winner is selected by our jury and honored as part of both monthly recognitions and the annual Grand Jury competition.