ShortFest 2025 Honors Top Films and Talent

The 2025 Palm Springs International ShortFest has officially wrapped.
This year’s festival ended with major wins and Oscar-qualifying honors.
“Retirement Plan” took home the coveted Best of the Festival award.
“Budō” was named Best Animated Short, while “Shanti Rides Shotgun” won Best Documentary Short.
In live-action categories, “Susana” and “Medusa” topped their respective time divisions.
A total of $30,000 in cash prizes were handed out.
Awards also recognized audience favorites and outstanding student films.
The weeklong celebration featured 311 short films from around the world.
Industry panels, filmmaker Q&As, and networking events filled the schedule.
ShortFest continues to serve as a powerful platform for emerging talent.
Many past winners have gone on to earn Academy Award nominations.
This year’s standout selections are already generating Oscar buzz.