After viewing all submissions, our panel of five judges choose the winners in each of the following categories:
- Best Script: Creativity and originality are the critical factors. All topics, genres, and forms are welcome.
- Best Acting: This is self-explanatory.
- Best Special Effects: The judges will be looking for originality, overall creativity, and skill.
- Best Anime: The judges will focus on the quality of the art and its appropriateness for the storyline.
- Best Camera Work: Skill and technical ability are most important here.
- Best Soundtrack: Creativity is encouraged, but music and/or sound effects should relate to the action and/or dialogue.
- Best Original Music: Melody and lyrics must be original.
- Most Original Short: The judges will be looking for a unique take on all of the above.
- 2026 Best Short: The judges will know it when they see it.