Check out the latest winners of Art Film Spirit Awards

The Toronto Art Film Spirit Awards is an innovative hybrid competition that has garnered significant attention in the film industry. This unique event features an IMDb qualifying competition, which serves as a vital platform for filmmakers to showcase their work. The awards aim to promote and recognize outstanding arthouse indie shorts and feature films from all corners of the globe, providing a much-needed spotlight on creative voices that often go unheard in mainstream cinema. The competition is deeply dedicated to celebrating the spirit of cinema and the essence of indie filmmaking, with various sections thoughtfully devoted to different aspects of the art form.

Categories include screenwriting, which honors the craft of storytelling; indie cinema, highlighting independent filmmakers who challenge conventional narratives; student films, showcasing the fresh perspectives of emerging talent; and experimental cinema, which pushes the boundaries of traditional filmmaking techniques and concepts. Each year, the Toronto Art Film Spirit Awards attracts a diverse array of submissions, reflecting the rich tapestry of global cinema. Filmmakers from various cultural backgrounds and artistic philosophies come together to share their unique visions, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among creators. It is our pleasure to announce the latest winners of the competition, whose works exemplify creativity, innovation, and a deep passion for the art of film. These talented individuals have not only captured the essence of modern storytelling but have also contributed to the ongoing dialogue about the role of independent cinema in today's society.

Here are the winners:

Best Narrative Feature

Sonny Boy

Director: Kristen Anne Hansen

Best Documentary Film

Wounds – Veterans’ Stories

Director: Ping hai Wu

Best Narrative Short Film

Break My Bones

Director: W. David King

Best Comedy

V.I.N.C.E. (Voice Intelligent Narrative Creation Engine)

Director: ADAM GREYDON REID

Best Science Fiction

Utility Poles

Director: Öner Macit

Best Animation

Hologram to Paris

Director: Sungju Lim

Best Experimental

Dialogues of Sea and Cave

Director: Ted Efremoff

Best Student Film

Lost Haven

Director: Marisol Diaz

Best TV Series/Web Series/Pilots

Stori Strong

Director: Laura Zaylea

Best Director

Dimitri Logothetis

Gunner

Best Actor

Devin Montgomery

Monsters Within

Best Actress

Frezar

Semblance

Best Cinematographer

Ryan Broomberg

semblance

Best Composer

Me-Lee Hay

Before 1770 The Journey Home

Best Indie Film

ALISON

Director: Nader Bagherpoor

Best Female Director

Emma Jackson

JOAN

Best Script

Shattering...

Elizabeth V. Newman