A Flexible, Filmmaker-Focused Framework

Now in its 16th year, the Underground Cinema Film Awards continues to celebrate the very best in independent filmmaking from Ireland and around the world.

Originally founded as a platform to honour short films, the awards have grown steadily to include independent features, which now form a vital part of the programme. In response to the increasing number of high-quality feature submissions, we’re excited to announce a refined category structure for 2025 that better reflects the diversity and scale of the work we receive.

Short Film Categories

Honouring the medium where it all began.

Short films are the heart of Underground Cinema. These 4 dedicated categories ensure short filmmakers receive the recognition they deserve.

Best Short Irish Film
Best International Short Film
Best Director
Best Screenplay

Feature Film Categories

We’ve introduced a streamlined set of categories to highlight excellence in feature filmmaking without overwhelming the program.

Best Feature Film
Best International Feature Film
Best Director
Best Screenplay

Performance Categories (Shared)

This category celebrates outstanding acting performances across both short and feature-length films. We are looking for powerful, memorable portrayals that bring characters to life—whether through subtle nuance, emotional depth, or transformative range.

Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress

Spotlight Categories (Shared)

Narrative and documentary styles are both welcome. Films can be live-action, or animated, in form. Runtime and budget are not limitations—what matters is bold storytelling and original vision.

Best Comedy
Best Horror
Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy Film
Best Animated Film
Best Student Film
Best Documentary

Craft Categories
(Shared)

These awards celebrate the exceptional artistry that elevates storytelling across all formats. Whether short or feature-length, every submission is eligible for recognition in the following key creative disciplines: