December 18, 2025
OPTIX Studios
Festival

Vertical Filmmaking Challenge

The Optix Vertical Vision Micro Filmmaking Challenge has wrapped. From small screens came big stories. Rewatch the finalist films, the standout moments, and the winning shorts.

OPTIX Vertical Vision Micro Filmmaking Challenge Recap

Future Of Film Association presents OPTIX Vertical Vision Micro Filmmaking Challenge.

Vertical filmmaking is taking over the world—and this year, it took center stage. The Optix Vertical Vision Micro Filmmaking Challenge invited bold creators to flip the frame and redefine the future of film through powerful micro-films built for the 9:16 screen. From fast, punchy storytelling to cinematic visuals designed for mobile, the finalists proved that the future fits in your hand.

Want to dive back in? ⤵
Rewatch all submissions and the top finalists here.

Winners

🥇 Grand Prize, OPTIX Visionary Award

ERASURE by Lluvia Giacoman
A standout vision that pushed the format forward and captured what vertical cinema can become.

🏆 Best Vertical Microdrama

When Angels Fall by Zaybe Valencia Bellver
A complete emotional journey with clear storytelling, strong pacing, and confident use of the vertical format.

🏆 Best Cinematic Look

Scissor Mouth by Deborah Richards
A disciplined visual language that turned the vertical frame into something immersive, polished, and undeniably cinematic.

🏆 Best Performance

The Kill by Kriss Lewis
A powerful, grounded performance that embraced the intimacy of vertical storytelling and stayed with you.

🏆 Best Vertical Brand Spot

NICE BAG by nmbskll (Numb Skull)
A smart blend of brand identity and story that felt authentic, engaging, and native to the vertical experience.

🏆 Audience Choice Award

GREATNESS by Kriss Lewis
Chosen by the community. A film that resonated, sparked connection, and captured hearts.

Why Vertical

Today’s audiences watch more stories on phones than in theaters. Vertical screens are the new main stage, and creators are transforming the format into a new art form. Hollywood was built on widescreen. The future fits in your hand.

Challenge snapshot

Prize pool

The Optix Vertical Vision Micro Filmmaking Challenge featured a $10,000 total cash prize pool, awarding excellence across multiple categories and highlighting the next wave of mobile-first filmmakers.

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