AFI FEST 2026 has named the Grand Jury Prize winners in the short film categories — the laureates are now in contention for an Oscar

AFI FEST 2026, taking place in Hollywood, has announced the Grand Jury Prize winners in three short film categories. The laureates in live action, animation and documentary are now officially in contention for an Oscar at the 100th Academy Awards ceremony.

In live action, the award went to Alexandra Mateu's "Free Eliza (Notes on an Anatomical Imperfection)." The film explores the microcosm of society through the eyes of a woman whom those around her consider "imperfect" because of her inability to smile. The jury praised a sensitive and ironic study in which an anatomical peculiarity becomes a step toward genuine courage.

The animation Grand Prize went to Stephen P. Neary's "Living with a Visionary." The film tells of caregiving and elusive memories against the backdrop of the early isolation of the pandemic. Every brushstroke of color and tender detail reveals the gifts of a passionate curator and mother whose reality is gradually slipping away from everyday life.

In the documentary category, the winner was Fanny Texier's "A Woman's Place Is Everywhere." With rare intimacy and emotional generosity, the film shows the bonds between women and the spaces they create for one another. The sensitive cinematography gives equal room to grief and resilience, broadening the understanding of what it means to make a home.

All three winners automatically enter the list of contenders for an Oscar in the corresponding nominations. This is an important step for short films, which rarely receive broad attention outside of festivals.

This year's jury included curator Martin Joelle MacDonald, animator Kenzie Sutton and actress Kelly Marie Tran. Their choices emphasize the themes of care, authenticity and bonds between women — themes that resonate far beyond the festival screen.

For viewers seeking powerful short stories, these films are a precise guide. They show how entire worlds and human dramas that stay with you for a long time can fit into 10–15 minutes.