Judged by a select panel of independent industry experts.
Festival Awards Categories 2026
Best feature film
TBA
Honouring the most outstanding feature-length narrative production.
Best Short film
TBA
Celebrating brilliance in short-form storytelling 30 minutes and under.
Best feature Documentary
TBA
Recognising the most impactful feature-length, non-fiction work exploring global or local themes.
Best Director
TBA
Honouring the vision and technical craft behind the most effectively directed film.
best actor
TBA
It recognises a performer who brings a character vividly to life and leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
best Actress
TBA
It recognises a performer who brings a character vividly to life and leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
Best music video
TBA
Recognising outstanding visual storytelling through music.
Best Cinematography
TBA
Recognising outstanding achievement in camera work and visual composition.
Best Animation
TBA
Celebrating creative excellence in visual innovation and animated storytelling.
impact award
TBA
An honor dedicated to recognising films, filmmakers, or industry figures who use cinema as a catalyst for positive social, environmental, or cultural change.
Best documentary short
tba
Recognising the most impactful short-form, non-fiction work exploring global or local themes.
Lifetime achievement
tba
Honours an individual whose exceptional contribution has made a lasting impact on film, television and creativity.
Audience Award
TBA
Voted for by our most important critics: the festival visitors.
best comedy film
TBA
Highlighting the best comedy film of the festival.
the Heywood Award
TBA
Given to help the winner further develop their creative career.
Spirit of Croydon
TBA
A special local award for the individual, collective or institution, that best captures the vibrant culture of our South London district.