Announcements

Congratulations to the Award Winners

May 8, 2025

Congratulations to these films and filmmakers for their compelling, creative and engaging cinematic works. From best acting to best untold story, the winners exemplify the power of authentic military storytelling and represent what the festival is all about. 

BEST NARRATIVE SHORT

SHELLSHOCK

Directed by Justin Garza

 

BEST STUDENT FILM 

Silent Waves

Directed by Marielene “Deuce” Jones

 

BEST ACTING

Joi Dwight

in Silent Waves

 

DIRECTOR’S VISION

DOLDRUMS

Directed by Le Chau

 

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT 

THE END OF THE LONGEST WAR 

Directed by Sydney Joanna Sheng

 

WOMEN’S VOICE

Silent Waves

Directed by Marielene “Deuce” Jones

 

LOCAL CHOICE

Bring Them Home

Directed by Rike Boomgaarden and Tamara Jatchvadze

 

BEST NEW DIRECTOR 

Steven Grayhm

SHEEPDOG

 

BEST UNTOLD STORY

Triumph Over Prejudice: The Montford Point Marines

Directed by Daniel Bernardi 

 

VETERANS VOICE

IN THE MATCHBOX 

A Film by Jermi Little and Mike Rae Anderson

 

SPIRIT OF KPBS

MAX: One Last Favor

Directed by Patti Bonnet