Congratulations Filmmakers!
The SFW: Shorts 2025 Screening & Awards Ceremony was held at MAST: Mayflower Studios on Sunday 16 November 2025. Filmmakers from the region and beyond gathered for a memorable evening that began with a special pre-screening networking session. Attendees then enjoyed a showcase of the shortlisted films and celebrated the talented creators behind them.
Here are the winning films and filmmakers.
Gentle as Moss on Stone
A poetic meditation on resilience, memory, and the quiet wisdom of nature. At the foot of a moss-covered hill he can no longer climb, a retired bryologist weaves tales of imaginary mosses for his young granddaughter. Each moss holds a secret remedy – coded strengths to help her navigate the challenges of life, long after he is gone. The fears in the film were collected during workshops with neurodiverse young people – each animated moss serves as a remedy for one of their anxieties. Through this process, the film becomes a bridge between science and emotion, where the imagined flora embody deeply personal aspirations for comfort and resilience.
Director
Vicky Isley & Paul Smith (Boredom Research)
Winners of The Michael Fuller Award for Best Film, the Audience Award and Best Artist Film.
Moving Margins
Moving Margins traces Gary Krishna’s evolution from a past of addiction and crime to a poignant journey of writing and performance – from the margins of society to centre stage. Through his words, he navigates his turbulent past, while inspiring others to find solace and expression through creative writing.
Director
Esmee Goward
Winner of BEST DOCUMENTARY!
Future Of… (Land)
The end is near as the animal world is in revolt. The second story in the series of shorts explores a story from us living amongst rural wildlife.
Director
Scott Coello
Winner of BEST ANIMATION!
Matrescence
Heather, a first-time mother struggles to navigate the isolating reality of new parenthood with her newborn son, George.
Director
Harvey Albury
Winners of the REGIONAL FILMMAKER AWARD
Walk With Me Through The Fire – The Curse of KK Hammond
Spaghetti Western meets horror music video from slide blues guitarist and friends.
Director
Kris Hammond
Winners of BEST MUSIC VIDEO!
School Principal
Three female high school students have called for street demonstrations. Recognising the students involved, the School Principal summons them to her office.
Director
Mikaeel Dayani
Winner of BEST FICTION!
