Austin, Texas — The 32nd SXSW Film & TV Festival, held in vibrant Austin, wrapped up its 2025 session with an electrifying array of winners in diverse categories ranging from Narrative Features to Music Videos. At the heart of this year’s festival was a collection of films and TV shows that deftly mirrored the complexities of human experiences, pushing creative boundaries and drawing accolades for their innovation and emotional depth.
A stand-out at the festival was the Narrative Feature Competition, supported by Kickstarter. The top prize was snagged by Amy Wang for her directorial work in “Slanted,” a satirical thriller that delves deeply into racial identity with raw, evocative storytelling and stellar performances. The film, praised for its universal appeal and personal touch, left audiences contemplating long after the ending credits.
In the same category, Annapurna Sriram earned a Special Jury Award for her multifaceted role in “Fucktoys,” where she served as director, writer, executive producer, and star, delivering an unconventional impactful performance. Another notable performance by Amanda Peet in “Fantasy Life” was recognized with a Special Jury Award, highlighting her dynamic portrayal of a struggling actress revitalized by an unexpected friendship.
The Documentary Feature Competition was no less compelling, with “Shuffle” directed by Benjamin Flaherty taking the top honors. This poignant film exposes the dark side of the addiction treatment industry with a blend of personal memoir and investigative journalism, offering both a critique and a beacon of hope through its heartfelt storytelling.
Other awards were given for exceptional short films across various genres. “One Day This Kid,” directed by Alexander Farah, won in the Narrative Short category, exploring themes of cultural identity and queer experience through a masterful lens. In the Documentary Shorts category, “Looking for a Donkey” by Juan Vicente Manrique, took home the top prize for its insightful look into geopolitical nuances.
Innovations were also recognized, notably in the XR Experience Competition where Cameron Kostopoulos’s “In the Current of Being” won the Agog Immersive Impact Award, presenting a persuasive narrative on using XR technology for social-good.
While trophies were handed out to the jury-selected winners, the audience also played a critical role with category-specific Audience Awards, determined through votes certified by Maxwell Locke & Ritter. The engagement of attendees contributed to a broader appreciation of the diverse narratives showcased throughout the festival.
Claudette Godfrey, VP of Film & TV at SXSW, encapsulated the spirit of the festival, celebrating the diversity and depth of stories that resonated with audiences and juries alike, marking another successful year for SXSW’s legacy in championing groundbreaking cinema and TV.
The festival’s influence extends beyond entertainment, as it serves as a qualifying event for the Academy Awards Short Film competition, among other prestigious accolades, positioning its winners in the international spotlight.
SXSW’s synergy of art, technology, and community once again reaffirmed its status as a pivotal platform for filmmakers and artists across the globe. Congratulations to all the visionaries whose works were celebrated this year.
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