Recognized as one of the world’s “50 leading Film Festivals” by indieWIRE, Aspen Shortsfest showcases the most innovative and vibrant voice on the cinematic landscape - the short film. Competing for significant cash prizes, animated and live action award winners may also qualify for Academy Award consideration. Enthusiastic audiences, young film and video artists and special guests from around the globe gather to participate in public screenings, panels, workshops, and other festivities celebrating the art and craft of short filmmaking.

Best Animation — $2500
Best Comedy — $2500
Best Drama — $2500
Best Documentary — $2500
Best Short Short — $1000
Best Student Short — $2000
The Ellen Award — $2500 (Animation / Comedy), $1000 (Drama / Documentary) for "most original film."
Special Jury Recognition

Entries must be 40 minutes or under in length, cannot have premiered before March 2022, and submitted in one of the following categories: Animation, Comedy, Documentary, or Drama.
Entries previously exhibited in a public screening in Colorado, broadcast on American TV, exhibited online, or have had US theatrical distribution cannot be considered for Aspen Shortsfest 2023. Aspen Shortsfest prioritizes world, international, North American, and US premieres.
Submit via Filmfreeway.
Student Fees.
Subtitles language: English
Premiere Requirements

National premiere required.