The second edition of HollyShorts London will run from 13–16 November 2025, bringing four days of screenings, panels and events that blur the lines between film, music and creative culture. Modelled on its Los Angeles counterpart, the festival focuses on diverse and cross-cultural storytelling and aims to strengthen creative links between the UK and the US.
Trailblazer Awards for Wright and Karia
BAFTA winner Letitia Wright and filmmaker Aneil Karia (The Long Goodbye, Surge) will receive this year’s Trailblazer Awards, recognising their work in British cinema and their advocacy for underrepresented voices.
Screenings and events
The programme includes the premiere of Hugel: The Entourage, a documentary by international DJ-producer Hugel following his life on tour and the team behind his success.
South Sudanese-Canadian artist and activist Emmanuel Jal presents Bile Bile, a music video project that merges rhythm and social commentary.
Carol Glenn, the UK’s first black female motorsports team owner, joins a panel on innovation and representation across creative industries.
Animator and musician Nissi Ogulu, founder of Creele Animation Studios, screens her short film Sọpọ in the international animation showcase, highlighting the rise of African creative voices in global storytelling.
Industry and culture panels
The festival’s discussions will feature figures from across music and sport, including Simon Dunmore, head of artist development at Arcade Talent and founder of Defected Records and Glitterbox; Louie Dunmore, founder of Sondela Recordings; and Naomi Metzger, 11-time British triple-jump champion and Commonwealth bronze medallist.
SUSHISAMBA partnership
SUSHISAMBA London will present the Best International Award at the festival’s closing ceremony, honouring standout global storytelling. The restaurant will also host a private dinner for nominees and guests. The partnership coincides with SUSHISAMBA’s expansion to Los Angeles next month, underlining the festival’s cross-Atlantic connections.
Design and details
Festival winners will receive custom-made champagne glasses created by The Èlliance, while Essex Bouqcakes will design floral cupcake installations for the opening night.
A growing platform
HollyShorts London positions itself as a bridge between film, music and design, reflecting the changing shape of contemporary storytelling. As it expands its presence, the festival continues to foster collaboration between London’s creative scene and its Los Angeles origins, linking Soho to Sunset Boulevard through a shared focus on innovation and inclusion.
