2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards announces open call for submissions

Film Independent announced that it is accepting film and television submissions for the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards, taking place Saturday, February 22. The organization is excited to celebrate 40 Years of Spirit Awards—the primary fundraiser for Film Independent’s year-round programs that cultivate the careers of emerging filmmakers and promote inclusion in the industry.

“We are thrilled to open submissions for the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “The awards are a time to celebrate the beautiful work created over the last year, but this year they bring an undeniable sense of urgency as well. Thanks to ever-increasing media consolidation and the radical restructuring of the film world, the independent sector is under serious threat. Film Independent remains fiercely committed not just to fight to preserve that sector but to build the audience for this great and indispensable work. The Spirit Awards takes on a new meaning and importance in light of all these changes. Join us!”

The Spirit Awards performance categories, all of which are gender-neutral, remain unchanged for 2025. However, in deference to production timelines, the eligibility window for Television categories will be September 30, 2023 – October 1, 2024, to account for all eligible submissions.

Spirit Awards Submissions Deadlines:

Film

Early Deadline: Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Regular Deadline: Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Final Deadline: Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Arts Circle, Filmmaker Pro and Secret Member Extended Deadline: Friday, October 4, 2024

Television

Regular Deadline: Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Final Deadline: Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Arts Circle, Filmmaker Pro and Secret Member Extended Deadline: Friday, September 20, 2024